The Olympics: Another Fallen Gymnast, Soccer Redemption, and W

They say twins can feel each other's pain. Today, an entire country can feel the pain of the Hamm twins.

Today, gymnast Morgan Hamm suddenly withdrew from the Games citing an ankle that has been unresponsive to treatments. In a statement issued through USA Gymnatics and appearing on NBC's Olympic Website: "I have been dealing with this for the last year and it has gotten worse here in Beijing. Right now I am unable to perform my tumbling skills at the level that I need to. This has an impact on my ability to contribute to the team's goals and I believe by continuing I would be putting myself at further risk."

Morgan's withdrawal comes less than two weeks after gymnast, twin brother, and 2004 all-around gold medalist Paul pulled out of the 2008 Games due to shoulder and hand injuries.

On a completely different level, literally, Yao Ming has been chosen to carry the Chinese flag during the opening ceremonies. Mr. Ming is 7'5". Each of the Hamm boys are about 5'6".

From the soccer pitch, a 1-0 U.S. men's victory over Japan helped to lessen yesterday's blow to the U.S. women's squad. The Americans scored the opening-round game's lone goal in the 47th minute of play.

Finally, W's tour of Asia finally brought him to China. Bush's appearance at the Games will be, according to the International Herald Tribune, "the first by a sitting American president."

--Alex Crevar

Comments

[brooks]

Very sad indeed regarding the Hamm brothers. They have represented the U.S. of A. well the past 8 years.

In the words of Marvin Gaye:

Brother, Brother, Brother
You know we gots to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today.