Australian Athlete Has Finger Amputated to Compete in Paris Olympics

A member of Australia's field hockey team, Matt Dawson, has had his finger amputated in order to participate in the Paris Olympic Games. This was reported by 7News.

The 30-year-old athlete broke the tip of his right ring finger just before heading to France. Typically, such injuries are treated with a cast, but this option would have prevented the Australian from competing in the Olympics. Consequently, Dawson opted to have the top phalanx of his injured finger removed.

“I decided with the plastic surgeon not just for the chance to play in Paris, but for my whole life. The best option for me was to remove the top part of the finger. I think it’s an interesting challenge. I hope it doesn’t take me too long to get back into shape,” Dawson stated.

Colin Batch, the head coach of Australia, said that Dawson's decision was an incredible demonstration of commitment. “Dawson is already back in training. He has set a high standard for those who may break a finger in the future, but Matt deserves great respect for making this decision and for his commitment to play in Paris,” said Batch.