Visually-impaired judoka Chris Skelley admitted it was "a different type of crying" to Rio after winning gold in the men's B2 -100kg final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
The 28-year-old burst into tears after beating American Ben Goodrich at Nippon Budokan, and afterwards spoke emotionally about how the sport has saved him from the "darkest part" of his life.
Skelley was born with genetic condition oculartanious albinism but at the age of 17 his vision deteriorated drastically.
He found judo and qualified for the Rio 2016 Paralympics only to miss out on a medal as he finished fifth.
His preparation for Tokyo was then rocked when former coach Jeff Brady died less than three weeks before the start of the Games after suffering from Parkinson's disease.
"It's been a long road for the last 11 years - it was heartache in Rio but now it's a different type of crying, it was a big relief," said Skelley, who grabbed a British flag moments after securing gold.
"Eleven years ago I was in the darkest part of my life because everything left me and the only thing that was left was my judo and to have that come true today, I couldn't believe it.
"I lost my coach Jeff Brady only a few weeks ago and he was a big influence along with Ian Johns (British Judo Paralympic head coach) in my career. Everyone has just supported me over the years and believed in me. A lot of the time I've not believed in myself.
"Everyone laughs at me, I'm an awful crier. I cry at anything.
"I never expected to do this as a job; it's my hobby, I love it because I love judo. And to stand here and talk to you now as a Paralympic champion, I'm lost for words."
Skelley was forced to halt his career as a mechanic due to his declining sight, as well as give up rugby and despite the disappointment of Rio, it was there where he met wheelchair tennis player and now fiancée Louise Hunt. The couple are set to marry next year.
"It's going to be even worse (at the wedding)," he said.
"I can get away with it here because obviously I'm fighting other men but I can't get away with it there, I will be blubbing like a baby.
"I can't wait to see Louise, I'm going to give her a massive hug. I can't wait to see my mum.
"I'm just gutted they couldn't be out here. I'm going to go home a Paralympic champion - I think this is a dream."
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