Olympic gymnast Nile Wilson forced into retirement by injury
Wilson has not competed internationally since suffering a bulging disc in his neck 12 months ago
Former Olympic gymnast and Go Hard or Go Home star Nile Wilson has opened up about how an injury in 2016 forced him into early retirement and cost him his dream of competing at the 2020 Olympics.
Wilson, who won a bronze medal in the team event at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has not competed internationally since suffering a bulging disc in his neck 12 months ago.
The 24-year-old, who also won three gold medals at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, said the injury was a "huge blow" and that he had to make the "heartbreaking" decision to retire.
"It was a very tough decision to make, but I knew that I couldn't continue to compete at the level I wanted to," Wilson said.
"I had been having problems with my neck for a while, and it got to the point where I couldn't train properly or compete without pain."
Wilson said he had surgery on his neck in 2019, but the injury has not fully healed.
"I'm still getting treatment, but I'm not sure if I'll ever be able to compete again," Wilson said.
"It's a shame, but I'm just grateful for the opportunities I've had in my career."
Wilson is now working as a coach and commentator.
Nile Wilson: I'm proud of what I've achieved in my career
Despite the disappointment of having to retire early, Wilson said he is proud of what he has achieved in his career.
"I've won Olympic and Commonwealth medals, and I've competed at the highest level for my country," Wilson said.
"I'm grateful for the support I've received from my family, friends, and fans, and I'm excited to see what the future holds for me."
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