Sam Ryder praises Ukraine’s Eurovision success: ‘They always wanted to win’

Sam Ryder has shared feelings of “joy” at his Eurovision experience after finishing second in the competition.

The singer-songwriter and TikTok star represented Britain at the 66th Eurovision Song Contest, held in Turin, Italy on Saturday (May 14).

In the national jury vote, he scored 283 points – the best result in the country for 20 years.

Ryder appeared on BBC Radio 4’s Today program on Monday (16 May) to reflect on his experience.

The ‘Space Man’ singer said: “It was just the most rewarding experience ever and that experience started way before the scoreboard.

“We sat there in the Green Room and we were completely immersed in the energy of this arena, it was like being in a church because there was so much joy.”

He continued: “I’m sitting there with my friends who are also my team and it’s just so lucky. I’ve just gotten carried away with the joy of Eurovision, I’m just so excited.”

Although Great Britain topped the rankings after the jury vote, the Kalush Orchestra from Ukraine was the final winner after public votes were taken into account.

Although Great Britain were close to first place, Ryder said he was not surprised by Ukraine’s triumph.

“They had to win that. They would always win that,” he said.

“It’s so important that we use the Eurovision platform to celebrate solidarity and bring light into the darkness.”

Before being chosen as this year’s hopeful, Ryder had made a name for himself on TikTok for his covers of big hits as well as his own original music.

Find our review of the 2022 competition and all the latest updates here.