Matt Dawson Amputates Finger to Compete in Paris Olympics

Matt Dawson, an Australian field hockey player has made a dramatic decision to amputate part of his finger to compete in the Paris Olympics. Dawson, who suffered a severe break to a digit on his right hand during a team training session in Perth two weeks ago, faced a choice between a lengthy recovery from surgery or a more immediate return to the field.

At 30 years old, he chose to have the finger amputated from the knuckle up, surprising both his teammates and coach. Dawson’s injury was so severe that he lost consciousness when he saw the damage. Initially, he feared his Olympic aspirations were over. A consultation with a plastic surgeon revealed that while surgery could potentially repair the finger, full functionality might not return and the recovery process would be lengthy.

The alternative, amputation would allow him to resume playing within 10 days. Despite his wife’s concerns about acting rashly, Dawson made the decision to proceed with the amputation the same afternoon. His decision shocked the team with captain Aran Zalewski noting the unexpected nature of the choice but ultimately supporting Dawson’s determination.

“When you’ve dedicated your life to competing at the highest level, it was an easy decision for him,” Zalewski said. Kookaburras coach Colin Batch praised Dawson’s commitment, admitting he would have struggled to make the same choice. Dawson’s history of extreme injuries includes nearly losing an eye before the 2018 Commonwealth Games, where he still played a key role in Australia’s gold medal win.

He also contributed to the team’s silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. Matt Dawson will join the Kookaburras in their match against Argentina on Saturday just 16 days after his injury.