Lovable loser wins hearts of fans, media

American Matthew Emmons has won the hearts of Chinese people with an outstanding performance and an outgoing personality.

China's love for Emmons is not only due to the dramatic gold medal he gave up to Chinese shooter Jia Zhanbo at the 2004 Athens Games when he shot at the wrong target on his final shot in men's 50m three positions - though that helps.

His dramatic loss yesterday helps too. Emmons led all the way until the final shot, boasting a 3.4-point lead and looking destined for the crown. But a miserable final shot of 4.4 cost him the podium finish, as Chinese veteran Qiu Jian left with the gold.