Homan in 'deepest black hole' after curling loss at Beijing Olympics

BEIJING — Support from the curling community came pouring in Wednesday after Rachel Homan said she was in "the deepest of black holes" after missing the playoffs at the Beijing Games.

"I just want to give her a hug honestly, she has nothing to feel ashamed of," said Canadian women's team vice Kaitlyn Lawes. "She's a two-time Olympian and worked her butt off."

Homan and mixed doubles partner John Morris dropped an 8-7, extra-end decision to Italy last week. The loss — confirmed on a measurement — dashed their hopes of reaching the semifinals.

The three-time national champion said she avoided social media since missing the cut at the Ice Cube, admitting in a tweet that she was having a hard time with the loss.

"Being completely honest because I know many athletes have felt this but I’m in the deepest of black holes wishing we could have found another centimetre for Canada," Homan said.

"Know that I’m cheering hard for every athlete in Beijing right now but personally struggling beyond words."

Homan ended her self-imposed social media exile to congratulate long-track speedskater Ivanie Blondin on her gold medal in the women's team pursuit on Tuesday.

"I’ve been completely off of social media, but when your childhood best friend realizes her lifelong dream, I had to send her the biggest f*# Ya," said Homan.

Homan said in another tweet that although she's struggling with the loss, she was still honoured to represent Canada at the Olympics.

"I never take the Maple Leaf for granted and am grateful for the chance to fight for you all," she tweeted, adding a heart and a Canadian flag emoji.

Homan, who won a world title in 2017, missed the podium in her previous Olympic appearance in 2018, falling short in the women's team