15 Aug 2016

NZ wrestler pulls out of Rio

7:07 am on 15 August 2016

New Zealand's sole wrestler Craig Miller has withdrawn from the men's 66kg event at the Rio Olympic Games following a knee injury.

NZ wrestler Craig Miller.

NZ wrestler Craig Miller. Photo: NZOC

The 31-year-old had been a late addition to Rio after an Australian wrestler was disqualified for doping.

Miller was set to compete in the Greco-Roman discipline.

The injury, sustained to the knee ligaments during training in Rio yesterday, has meant Miller will not be able to compete.

While the decision to withdraw was his made in consultation with coach Mark Grayling and the New Zealand Olympic Team medical staff, Miller said he was hugely disappointed.

"I was a late call up to the Olympic Games and really felt I was about to achieve a life long dream. I was committed and determined to succeed. To have an injury take this away from me is really gutting."

Miller will stay on in Rio to support the New Zealand Olympic Team.