Joe Schmidt hailed Australia's "grit and resilience" after they earned a shock win against the British and Irish Lions to avoid a series whitewash.

Schmidt was left angry after last Saturday's defeat as he felt a decision went against the Wallabies, but they bounced back to beat the Lions 22-12 in the final Test in Sydney.

Dylan Pietsch, Max Jorgensen and Tate McDermott crossed for the hosts in a match that included a lengthy weather delay and held on despite a Lions fightback in the second half.

It was the second consecutive series that Australia have lost against the Lions, having also lost 2-1 back in 2013, but after a slow start in the first Test, Schmidt was delighted with how his side have improved over the last two weeks.

"I'm just relieved and incredibly proud," said Schmidt.

"We worked really hard to build that 8-0 lead. Coming off after the lightning could've destabilised things, so to stay focused and defend well was a real testament to the players' character.

"It wasn't pretty. It was all about grit and resilience. I really admired the way the players came through; they did just enough to get the job done.

"They earned whatever they got. I couldn't be any prouder of the way the players rebounded. The feeling of disappointment they had [after the second Test] was deep. You had to let that run its course and let them springboard back."

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Thanks for an incredible Series, @lionsofficial, and congratulations on your win #Wallabies #LionsTour2025 pic.twitter.com/825xzshEr5

— Wallabies (@wallabies) August 2, 2025

Nic White was named in the starting line-up as he played his 72nd and final Test for Australia after announcing his international retirement.

He was at the heart of Australia's victory as he led and controlled the game, allowing him to sign off on a high.

"What a game. That had everything!" said White.

"It wasn't always champagne rugby, but we were committed, and sometimes we were able to use our skill and other times we were desperate.

"It's pretty nice to finish with a win."