Torn hamstring forces Usain Bolt to withdraw from 100m final at Jamaican Olympic Trials

Reigning world 100m champion and world record-holder Usain Bolt has withdrawn from the 100m final at the Jamaican National Olympic Trials due to a torn hamstring.

The setback, which could sideline the legendary sprinter for the remainder of the meet, does not necessarily mean he will not be able to compete at next month's Rio Olympics.

The Jamaican athletics governing body allows for medical exemptions if an athlete can show an injury denied them a chance to compete at the trials.

Bolt took to Twitter to explain the situation shortly after withdrawing on Friday night local time.

"After feeling discomfort in my hamstring after the first round last night and then again in the semi-final tonight I was examined by the Chief Doctor of the National Championships and diagnosed with a Grade 1 tear," he wrote in a statement shared on Twitter. 

"I have submitted a medical exemption to be excused from the 100m final and the remainder of the National Championships.

"I will seek treatment immediately and hope to show fitness at the London Anniversary Games on July 22 to earn selection for the Olympic Games in Rio."

With AFP.