Hurdler has heartbreaking reaction after disqualification
French hurdler Wilhem Belocian had his Olympic dream shattered after a false start in the 110m hurdles, and he was absolutely devastated.
The 21-year-old broke well before his fellow competitors in the second semi-final in Rio on Tuesday, resulting in an automatic disqualification.
For four long years of preparation to be cut short in a split-second would be heartbreaking for any athlete, and Belocian's reaction left the entire stadium stunned.
The youngster took an eternity to leave the track, on the verge of tears as he laid down with his head in his hands.
It left many fans calling for a change to the rule.
4 years of training and you false start. Feel sorry for the guy
— Leslie (@lesTooSmooth) August 16, 2016
The "one false start" rule in track is the most savage thing in sports. #Rio2016 pic.twitter.com/GX70MVl3dO
— The Ringer (@ringer) August 16, 2016
This track rule where you're kicked out after one false start seems really cruel. The poor Frenchman in those 110m hurdles was despondent.
— Brian Libby (@brianlibby) August 16, 2016
Getting kicked out for one false start is a ridiculous rule!!! Belocian didnt deserve that #Rio2016
— Sayidana (@sbd_xx) August 16, 2016
This hurdle race just broke my heart. The guy from France didn't mean to false start. How can the rule be one and out?!?!?! HOWWWWW?
— Akilah Hughes (@AkilahObviously) August 16, 2016
It certainly has been an eventful day in the hurdles: