An emotional Alun Wyn Jones said he was “proud” to represent Wales despite Sunday’s World Cup semi-final defeat against South Africa.
Warren Gatland’s side fell to a narrow 16-19 loss as Handre Pollard converted a late penalty.
There was no way back for Wales, who had already fought back to level the scores at 16-16. But a visibly dejected Jones praised the efforts of his teammates.
“I think we showed it today. We stayed in the arm wrestle, but we probably piggy-backed them down the park for the penalty,” said the Welsh captain.
“South Africa took advantage, so congratulations to them.”
Jones, Wales’ record cap holder, made his 133rd appearance at the Yokohama International Stadium, a total bettered only by New Zealand’s Richie McCaw.
And the 34-year-old is showing no signs of stopping after another impressive World Cup campaign.
“Today we fell short, but we’ll hopefully get another opportunity,” he added.
“It wasn’t our day but I’m still proud to pull this jersey on and represent all the people in red in this stadium.”
Wales will now meet New Zealand in the third place match on Friday, which will be Gatland’s final game in charge.
