This time, there was no last-minute escape act for Andy Murray, whose remarkable career has come to an end.
The 37-year-old, who declared the Olympic doubles event his final on tour, turned back the clock in recent days alongside British compatriot Dan Evans.
The two won their first two matches in thrilling three-set fashion, but today, they were no match for Americans Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul, who overwhelmed them in straight sets to reach the men's doubles semifinal round.
The loss marks the end for not only a hall-of-fame-caliber player, but also an Olympian who achieved rarified air: Murray is the only men's player in Olympic games history to win two singles gold medals.