They may not have won the gold, but these all-star athletes certainly won hearts during an incredible display of sportsmanship at the women’s 5,000 meter race semifinal.
D’Agostino didn’t waste a second jumping to her feet so she could help Hamblin up to finish the race side by side.
Just after the rescue, D’Agostino collapsed to the ground, unable to continue – but this time, it was Hamblin who stayed to help her.
D’Agostino eventually convinced Hamblin to continue without her and – once she had hobbled over the finish line with an injured ankle a full two minutes after the winner – they embraced each other with huge smiles of appreciation.
Here is what Nikki Hamblin had to say about Abbey D'Agostino after their collision in today's Olympic 5,000m heat. pic.twitter.com/HxTFsKkcZy
— Jonathan Gault (@jgault13) August 16, 2016
Hamblin later exclaimed her astonishment at D’Agostino’s kindness, declaring “that girl is the Olympic spirit.”
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However, since the collision that caused the American’s injury was an accident, she will still be able to compete in the finals on Friday.
(WATCH the incredible video below)
After colliding, @abbey_dags (#USA) & @NikkiHamblin (#NZL) show true #Olympic spirit. https://t.co/LJf9pvPIbV https://t.co/HTfixzxCVS
— NBC Olympics (@NBCOlympics) August 16, 2016
(Note: if you are unable to see the video above, please click here.)
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