Disappointment for Gianmarco Tamberi at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

The Olympic champion, who arrived in Japan far from his best form, failed to clear 2.21m, failing three consecutive times. He therefore failed to qualify for the high jump.

"I'm sorry. Today I felt good. I had a pitiful result, so it's fair enough," he comments bitterly. "I finished last year with zero desire to continue. I would have liked a fourth event to try. I know that lows can help you get back on track, but it hurts. I'd like to go home to my women, who will help me get over this terrible state. I showed up in less than great conditions, but I knew I could jump over 2.30m, otherwise I wouldn't have left my 20-day-old daughter in Italy. I feel terrible."

Two of the other four Italians competing, Manuel Lando and Stefano Sottile, also had no chance. Matteo Sioli, meanwhile, continued his progress, clearing 2.21m.

(Unioneonline)