defeated player

A packed stadium and millions of TV watchers were charmed when, in the awards ceremony at Arthur Ashe Stadium, the defeated player smiled, was more than gracious, and had the presence of mind to understand that the tennis event was being played at the time of the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on New York.

It is hard not to read his comments as those of a defeated player, one who is prepared to head graciously to the bench rather than fight for his job.

The British Amateur Championship is decided by a tournament in matches thus played, each defeated player retiring, and his opponent passing on into the next round.

The gallant face of the defeated player in the photograph stood out beside Don's startled, angry resentment at a wound to his vanity.

A defeated player should be led to recognize and do honor to the prowess of his adversary, and so to congratulate him honestly.