High jump champion Gianmarco 'Gimbo'
Tamberi has said he will dedicate time to family and friends but
"this doesn't mean quitting" over his failing to defend his
Olympic title at the Paris Games after being hospitalised with
renal colic and vomiting blood.
"I showed attachment to the colours" of Italy, "I'm happy I
tried, I owed it to myself, to those who chose me as the flag
bearer and to those who supported me", said the 32-Marche born
athlete, one of Italy's flag bearers in Paris.
Tamberi said he "can think about everything now", when asked by
reporters whether he was considering taking part in the World
Athletics Championships in Tokyo next year.
"What I am having the hardest time with now is, once again,
putting sport in front of everything.
"But it's possible, it's a thought I have today which can change
tomorrow.
"I surely owe time to my friends and family, but this doesn't
mean quitting", he concluded.
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