Paralympian Marieke Vervoort considering euthanasia

Silver-medal winning Paralympian Marieke Vervoort has said she is still considering euthanasia, but contrary to reports will not be doing so after the Rio Games.

The 37-year-old Belgian, who came second in the 400 metres wheelchair race on Saturday, suffers from an incurable and degenerative spinal condition and signed euthanasia papers in 2008 in Belgium, where it is legal.

Before the Games Belgian media reported that she might decide to end her life after Rio, but at an emotional media conference on Sunday, Vervoort rejected the claims.

Vervoort also won gold in the 100 metres and silver in the 200 metres at the London Paralympic Games, but confirmed that Rio would be her last competitive appearance.

The Paralympian added that having the choice to end her life gave her hope and strength and encouraged a dialogue on assisted dying in countries around the world.