This article contains images which some readers may find distressing
Injury is always a nightmare for any athlete but one gymnast suffered disaster after disaster during the vault event at this year’s Olympic games.
Samir Ait Said was taking part in the men’s qualification during Saturday’s games when he landed badly.
The French gymnast’s leg crumpled below him and a snap was audible.
The true extent of his horrendous injury became clear as he rolled over in pain, the lower portion of his left leg dangling halfway down the shin.
Said’s team could be seen grimacing and holding their heads in their hands as medics examined him.
Said was stretchered away, putting on a brave face and waving at the crowd as he left the arena.
But things went from bad to worse for the gymnast when medics appeared to drop his stretcher as he was being loaded into the vehicle, the Independent reported.
According to the BBC, French team leader Corrine Moustard-Callon said: “We don’t know what happened, except it was his tibia.”
She added: “He is in the hospital with a doctor now. We will do more exams to see if it is just the bone.
“It is very difficult for the team. He was one of the friendliest on the team which is very difficult. He came to win a medal and gave everything.”
The poor 26-year-old athlete doesn’t seem to have much luck when it comes to the vault.
He missed the London 2012 Olympics after breaking his leg in three places during the same event at the European Championships.