Aussie gymnast Rizzo's injury throws shadow over Olympics

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2007

SYDNEY (AFP) — Australia's first and only world champion gymnast Philippe Rizzo has suffered a career-threatening injury just over a year out from the Beijing Olympics.

Rizzo will undergo surgery Tuesday to re-attach the Achilles tendon he snapped during floor routine training.

The injury means Rizzo will not be able to defend his 2006 high bars title at the world championships in Stuttgart in September, which will weaken his and Australia's chances of Olympic qualification for Beijing next year.

But the 26-year-old Australian is confident the setback won't end his gymnastic career and he can be back in time to bid for Beijing, if an opportunity is available.

"I haven't spoken to the surgeon, but I know from other gymnasts that have done it, they...