Nhat Nguyen is a game away from a place in the last-16 of the men's singles at the Olympic badminton.
The 21-year old Dubliner was a straight set victor over Sri Lanka's Niluka Karunaratne.
Nguyen was in control for most of the game, winning 21-16, 21-14.
"I am happy to be able to walk off the court as a winner," he said afterwards, "I am very grateful for the support that I had today.
"It was overwhelming walking out to all the staff there with me; my physio, my coach and a couple of others in support as well.
"I wanted to give my all for every single point, especially for the support I was given. I was happy I was able to do that even though I didn’t play my best, I am happy that I took the win.
“I feel I shook off the nerves there than rather playing free and playing my style so it was just getting the job done and I was happy that I crossed that line. I have a day to rest with late practise tomorrow.
"Today gave me a chance to test out the hall so I have no excuses going into the next game unprepared. I am excited and buzzing for it.”
Nguyen will return to the court on Wednesday, facing Wang Tzu-Wei of Chinese Taipei knowing the winner will be guaranteed a last-16 place.
"I dedicate today’s win to my family and my parents at home," Nguyen said, "They have sacrificed a lot for me and my sister and I am happy to give back by giving them something to cheer about and something to be happy about.
"They have worked very hard for us and I am pretty sure that they are working today as they work all day every day!
"I am going to give them a call after this game and I am happy that I made them proud. That is why I play badminton.”
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