Sorry to hear that.

I think it's useful for people who didn't enter the contest (like me and you) point out its flaws, because many others will be dismissed as 'sour grapes'.

Feedback is essential in any organization. When Medium directly asks me for it, I give it. And when they don't--but still need to hear it--I'm willing to speak up.

If a person--or organization--is wise, they'll welcome fair criticism--not dismiss it.