"This is a red letter day," declared host Graham Norton proudly as Sam Ryder earned the UK's best result in 20 years at the Eurovision Song Contest. And the praise and respect came pouring in for the TikTok sensation as he narrowly lost out to Ukraine.
The war-torn nation was favourite to win Eurovision 2022 and viewers were charmed by the rap band Kalush Orchestra's rousing performance of Stefania. And Ukraine won a massive 439 points in the public vote to claim the title.
They topped the leaderboard with 631 points followed by the UK with 466 for Sam's belter of a performance with his song Space Man. "It's our highest position in 20 years and all thanks to Sam Ryder," said host Graham. "He's the saviour of Eurovision. Three cheers for Sam Ryder."
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Fans flocked to Twitter to voice their pride over the UK entry. @peterpweston said: "Congratulations to Ukraine getting 439 popular vote points out of a maximum possible 468! Great work by Sam Ryder getting 2nd for the UK."
@HollyBarter messaged: "Genuinely so proud of Sam I am thrilled #eurovision." @ABroadBrush wrote: "#Eurovision congratulations #Ukraine!!! Lovely result. & Sam did so well too. Very proud of him."
@rxsiema3 tweeted: "Sam Ryder did amazing tonight. A worthy runner up." @TheArty60 commented: "What an achievement by Sam Ryder. I can't think of any nation I would rather be 2nd place to!"
@Nova10987654321 wrote: "Huge congratulations to Ukraine. Well done Sam Ryder #spaceman - you did us proud #Eurovision." And SarahPrudham said: "Omg second place finish in #eurovision for the UK! So proud of Sam I feel super emotional Doing the UK proud!! Congrats to Ukraine too!"
@hollyfaeerie enthused: "SO GASSED WITH SECOND thought Sam killed it and so so proud." And @MikeyC1991 commented: "I’m so incredibly proud of the UK at this year’s #Eurovision. 1998 was the last time we came 2nd. Sam Ryder is such a lovely guy."
