Rutherford realised he wasn't meeting the required times for sprinting events. This led him to long jump, where he found immediate success. "Long jump found me rather than me finding it," he said. By 18, he was jumping distances that seasoned athletes couldn't match.

International Debut and Achievements

Rutherford made his international debut in 2006, representing Great Britain. His most memorable achievement came in 2012 when he won a gold medal at the London Olympics. He credits a lone voice in the crowd for his victory, which motivated him during a crucial moment.

Injuries and Challenges

Throughout his career, Rutherford faced several injuries. A chest infection kept him out of the 2016 British Indoor Championships. He also missed the 2016 Glasgow International Grand Prix due to a muscle tear and withdrew from the 2014 Diamond League meeting because of a knee injury.

In 2013, a hamstring injury troubled him for the rest of the year. He also tore his hamstring at the 2011 World Championships and suffered from multiple infections before the 2008 Beijing Olympics final.

Awards and Honours

Rutherford's accolades include being named European Male Athlete of the Year in 2015 and British Athletics Writer's Association Male Athlete of the Year in 2014. In February 2013, he was made a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE).

Influences and Inspirations

Rutherford cites his parents as the most influential people in his career. His hero is Cuban athlete Ivan Pedroso. His sporting philosophy is simple: "Train as hard and as long as possible so your competitors have to be training harder to beat you."

Other Interests and Media Appearances

In addition to athletics, Rutherford trained with Aston Villa football club during his early teens. His great-grandfather Jock Rutherford holds the record as the oldest player for Arsenal Football Club.

Rutherford has also appeared on several British television shows, including 'Strictly Come Dancing', 'The Million Pound Drop Live', and 'Time Crashers'.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Rutherford plans to set up his own athletics club. This ambition reflects his desire to contribute to the sport beyond his competitive years.

Historic Achievements

Rutherford's victory at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing made him one of only five British athletes to hold Olympic, world, European, and Commonwealth titles simultaneously. He joined Daley Thompson, Linford Christie, Sally Gunnell, and Jonathan Edwards in this elite group.

Potential Winter Olympian

In early 2014, Rutherford expressed interest in competing in skeleton or bobsleigh at an Olympic Winter Games. Encouraged by British skeleton athlete Shelley Rudman, he planned to pursue this after the Rio Olympics in 2016.

Greg Rutherford's journey from a young sprinter to an Olympic gold medallist is a testament to his dedication and adaptability. As he looks forward to new challenges and opportunities, his legacy in athletics remains firmly established.