Dublin manager Dessie Farrell praised the achievement of his side's long-time rival as he suffered his first defeat as manager of last year's All-Ireland champions.
The Dubs' 45-match unbeaten streak came to an end on Saturday, as Mayo beat them 0-17 to 0-14 after extra time in the All-Ireland semi-final in Croke Park.
This also marked the first time that Mayo had beaten Dublin in either Championship or League fixtures in nine years, making it an extra-special victory for the Westerners.
'They have been very humble in victory and are equally gracious in defeat' | #DUBvMAY
An understandably disappointed Dessie Farrell spoke to @TomasORuanaidh after his first ever loss as #Dubs manager; Dublin's first defeat in 45 matches | ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/r7Nytly2li— Off The Ball (@offtheball) August 14, 2021
Speaking to OTB's Tommy Rooney after the match, Farrell was understandably disappointed with the result, but was gracious in defeat.
"Obviously players are very disappointed, that is the nature of losing a big game at this stage of the season," Farrell said.
"But that is the nature of sport. These players have been remarkable in many ways with what they have achieved over the last number of years.
"They will take this one on the chin. They have been humble in victory, and they are equally gracious in defeat. It is a tough pill to swallow, no question, but it was inevitable, it was going to happen at some stage."
Watch former Dublin footballer Paddy Andrew's reaction here:
This was the ninth time since 2012 that the two teams had faced each other in the All-Ireland; a rivalry as heated as few others in Gealic football history.
Farrell suggested that it was only fitting that Mayo be the team to break Dublin's unbeaten run, stating that he has great admiration for the Westerners.
"It is no great surprise that it is Mayo given the closeness of the contests and the huge rivalry over the years," Farrell said.
"I am sure Mayo people will feel that they were unfortunate not to come out on the right side of a few of those massive battles in recent history, but today they did.
"Hats off to them, they were the better team and they deserve their victory. I have huge admiration for what they have done."
