Veteran British marathon runner Paula Radcliffe withdrew from the London Games with a foot injury yesterday.

There had been prolonged speculation the 38-year-old world record holder, who has never won an Olympic medal of any colour, would pull out because of her foot problem and Radcliffe confirmed her exit in a statement yesterday.

“From the day when it was announced that London had won the bid, taking part and performing well in the London Olympic Games has been a major goal in my life,” Radcliffe said.

“The goal of a fifth Olympics in my home country, what better? The chance to make amends to myself for bitter disappointments at the previous two Olympics.

“Through a lot of tough times it has kept me fighting, motivated and focused. That is why it hurts so much to finally admit to myself that it isn’t going to happen,” added Radcliffe, who will be 42 by the time of the 2016 Games in Rio.

UK Athletics head coach Charles van Commenee added: “This is obviously a disappointing day for Paula and our sport, but it was important to her that if she made the start line it would be in the best possible shape.

“It wasn’t meant to be and she has taken the right decision to withdraw at this stage.

“She is one of the greatest female distance runners of all times and still holds the marathon world record.”

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