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Maurice Green Retires From Sprinting

Former world champ and Olympic medalist dogged by injuries

By Katherine Thompson,  Newser Staff

Posted Feb 4, 2008 4:15 AM CST
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(Newser) – Decorated sprinter Maurice Greene announced his retirement yesterday, ending a career that included two Olympic gold medals and several world titles. "It's a little sad for me, but I've had a great career. Because of my injuries, it's better to call it quits," said Greene. The decision leaves the racing world in shock, BBC reports.

The Kansas Cannonball's departure is "like Michael Jordan retiring from basketball, or Tiger Woods retiring," said a dazed Tyson Gay. Greene shares with Gay and Carl Lewis the distinction of attaining triple gold in a world championship, although in recent years Greene had not been dominating the field. The runner's made his announcement in China, where he had been touring Olympic facilities.

Former World and Olympic Champion Maurice Greene signs autographs for Chinese fans at the Beijing Sports University Monday, Feb. 4, 2008 in Beijing. Greene announced his retirement Monday, citing nagging injuries. (AP Photo)
Former World and Olympic Champion Maurice Greene signs autographs for Chinese fans at the Beijing Sports University Monday, Feb. 4, 2008 in Beijing. Greene announced his retirement Monday, citing nagging...   (Associated Press)
Former World and Olympic champion Maurice Greene answers questions from Chinese fans at the Beijing Sports University Monday, Feb. 4, 2008 in Beijing. Greene announced his retirement Monday, citing nagging injuries. (AP Photo)
Former World and Olympic champion Maurice Greene answers questions from Chinese fans at the Beijing Sports University Monday, Feb. 4, 2008 in Beijing. Greene announced his retirement Monday, citing nagging...   (Associated Press)
Former World and Olympic champion Maurice Greene, right, answers questions from Chinese fans at the Beijing Sports University Monday, Feb. 4, 2008 in Beijing. Greene announced his retirement Monday, citing nagging injuries. (AP Photo)
Former World and Olympic champion Maurice Greene, right, answers questions from Chinese fans at the Beijing Sports University Monday, Feb. 4, 2008 in Beijing. Greene announced his retirement Monday, citing...   (Associated Press)
Maurice Greene competes in a preliminary round of men's 100 meter dash at the Adidas Track Classic, Sunday, May 20, 2007, in Carson, Calif. Greene had a time of 10.84 and did not make it into the finals. Greene announced his retirement yesterday. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Maurice Greene competes in a preliminary round of men's 100 meter dash at the Adidas Track Classic, Sunday, May 20, 2007, in Carson, Calif. Greene had a time of 10.84 and did not make it into the finals....   (Associated Press)
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Greene known for flamboyant self-promotion
CNN

Rundown of Greene's career highlights
Reuters

Interview with Greene before announcement
DNA India

 
injury • 100 meter dash • track and field • 2000 Sydney Olympics • Maurice Greene

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