By Gelu Sulugiuc

BEIJING (Reuters) - Keeth Smart beat back a rare blood disease that nearly killed him four months ago then inspired the U.S. men's saber team to an unexpected silver medal at the Olympics on Sunday.

"This year has been one of the hardest years of my life as well as one of the greatest years of my life," he said after leading the United States to two thrilling comeback victories on their way to the final, which they lost 45-37 to France.

It was the first American men's fencing medal at the Olympics since 1984.

"I've been on a rollercoaster," Smart said. "I'll probably take a deep breath and it will all hit me. I'm still on an emotional high."

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