Harry Garside, a 27-year-old Australian boxer, faced a devastating loss in his first-round bout in the men's 63.5kg boxing category at the Paris Olympics.

In a match against Hungarian boxer Richard Kovacs, Garside lost despite winning the first round, as Kovacs employed showboating tactics that ultimately led to Garside's defeat.

Following the loss, Garside expressed his feelings candidly, stating, 'Honestly, I feel like a failure right now,' while showcasing his green and gold painted nails.

In a raw and emotional ringside interview, he conveyed the weight of his disappointment and the reality of carrying such experiences forward.

Garside acknowledged the potential for dark times following his defeat but remained hopeful for recovery, reflecting on the emotional toll of high-stakes competition.

He also opened up about his mental health struggles, including thoughts of suicide and overcoming a difficult childhood, alongside coping with a past charge of alleged domestic violence.

Despite the setback, Garside remains committed to his goals, having chosen to return to the amateur ranks to pursue Olympic gold in Paris.

He aims to challenge stereotypes and seek discomfort through his boxing journey, emphasizing the importance of self-assessment and personal growth.

Garside stresses the importance of continually challenging oneself and not settling for past achievements, embodying the spirit of resilience.

As a vocal advocate for mental health, he collaborates with organizations like the Australian Institute of Sport and the Black Dog Institute to foster open discussions among young people.

Despite his defeat, Garside continues to inspire others in advocating for mental health awareness and acceptance within the sports community.

Looking ahead, Garside is set to participate in the boxing program at Roland Garros, with his first match scheduled against Richard Kovacs.