der Herzen in English: Characterizes someone who ultimately lost, but has won the sympathy of the public.

Meanings

sarcasticCharacterizes someone who ultimately lost, but has won the sympathy of the public.
Mit Fieber angetreten, gewann sie die Silbermedaille und wurde Olympiasiegerin der Herzen.Competing with a fever, she won the silver medal and became an Olympic champion in spirit.