Australian field hockey player Matt Dawson made an extraordinary effort to compete in the Paris Olympics, even having part of his finger amputated to ensure he was fit enough to compete in his third Olympic Games.
The 30-year-old Tokyo Olympic silver medallist had been in doubt for the Paris Games after recently breaking the ring finger on her right hand.
Doctors gave him the choice between amputating part of his finger or letting it heal – either of these was the only way he could make it to Paris.
“There wasn't much time to make a decision,” he told Australian broadcaster Seven Network.
“After I made the decision, I called my wife and she said, 'Please don't make any rash decisions.'
“But I felt like I had all the information I needed to make a decision, not just to play in Paris, but for the rest of my life and for the best health for myself.”
The Seven Network aired footage showing Dawson wearing a black protective finger guard.
The Australian men's national team coach praised Dawson's courage and dedication but admitted he wasn't sure if he could do the same.
“The best way he could recover was to cut off the tip of his finger,” coach Colin Batch said.
“So he decided to do that. It's not something a coach can decide for a player.”
“Full marks to Matt. He's obviously serious about playing in Paris. I don't think I could have done it, but he did it. It's really incredible.”
Australia, who finished runners-up behind Belgium in Tokyo, will be aiming to do better in Paris, where the hockey tournament begins on July 27.
