Javelin star Zelezny quits

Jan Zelezny competes in his last Olympic final

Jan Zelezny has followed Steve Backley in announcing his retirement from the javelin at this year's Olympics.

The three-times Olympic champion won gold in Barcelona, Atlanta and Sydney and finished ninth this year.

As well as his Olympic success, the Czech legend earned titles at the World Championships in 1993, 1995 and 2001.

He also set five world records in his career, including a massive throw of 98.48 metres in Germany in 1996 - a mark which still stands.

Zelezny apologised to his Czech fans for failing to win a medal in Athens.

"I enjoyed many successes in my career so I feel rather sorry for my team about the ninth place," he said.

Immediately after the final, Zelezny had hinted he may compete in next year's World Championships in Finland.

But after a day to take stock, he said: "I may take part in several exhibitions or smaller events but the World Championships or even the Olympic Games, that is not for me."