Paris Olympics: Australian field hockey star amputates finger to keep national team spot

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Australian field hockey star Matt Dawson did not think twice before making a shocking sacrifice to claim his spot in the Paris Olympics 2024.

At 30, Dawson who already boasts a silver medal from the Tokyo Games, faced a critical decision after sustaining a severe injury. But, the star didn't back down from amputating his finger to make sure he got to represent the Kookaburras at the showpiece event.

Dawson fractured the ring finger on his right hand, putting his Olympic dreams at risk. Given two options by his medical team, he could either let the finger heal naturally, risking insufficient recovery time for the Games, or opt for a drastic measure: Amputate part of the finger to ensure his readiness. Choosing the certainty that comes with it despite the lengths of sacrifice, Dawson decided on the latter.

"I didn't have much time to make the decision. I made the decision then I called my wife, and she said, 'I don't want you to make a rash decision'," Dawson shared with Australian broadcaster Seven Network.

"But I guess I had all the information I needed to make a decision for not only playing in Paris but for life after and giving myself the best health," he added.

In a recent broadcast, the Seven Network aired compelling footage of Dawson wearing a protective black guard over his injured finger. Surprisingly this isn't the first time Dawson has confronted a severe injury. Six years ago, he nearly lost an eye after being struck by a hockey stick.

As the Paris 2024 Olympics approach, the Australian men's field hockey team look to surpass their previous achievements and secure the elusive gold medal. Fresh off their impressive performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where they claimed a silver medal after a hard-fought final against Belgium, they are determined to go one step further this time. The team will face Rio 2016 champions Argentina in their opening match of Paris 2024 on July 27.