Our hearts collectively broke for the French competitor after his leg snapped during an Olympic vault, but now, just days after the shocking incident, the athlete is back on his feet.
Samir Ait Said was taking part in a qualification event on the first day of competition when he suffered an injury upon landing from a somersault that can only be described as horrific.
After the gymnast was wheeled off in a stretcher to a resounding chorus of applause, Samir Ait Said underwent surgery to mend the double leg break that left his shin hanging at an unnatural angle.
The 26-year-old is recovering in at Vitoria Barra Hospital in Rio, and according to images obtained by The Daily Mail, he is already taking literal steps towards rehabilitation!
Samir pictured in good spirits with French politician, Patrick Kanner. (Pic/ Patrick Kanner Twitter)
In a video shared to the brave Olympian’s Facebook page, Samir can be seen sporting a cast in his country’s colours as he proudly cheers his fellow teammates on.
“I’m behind all my pals,” he said in French.
“They managed to keep their act together after my fall. That must have been really difficult.”
“They were real warriors. So come on boys, be strong, I’m with you.”
See Samir’s inspiring message in the video player below! Post continues…
He went on to reveal that he plans to stay in Rio to watch and support his team, some of which still managed to qualify despite seeing Samir’s horrific injury, before adding that he will begin training for Tokyo 2020 as soon as he can.
“Believe me, the Tokyo 2020 adventure is still alive,” he quipped. “As soon as I’m recovered, believe me, we’ll go back to training and we’ll go after that Olympic gold!”
That’s the spirit, Samir!
We’ll be rooting for you in Tokyo!
