Athens - Four-time world 110m hurdles champion Allen Johnson's bid to regain his Olympic title ended in disaster on Wednesday when he fell for only the second time in his 13-year career.
The 33-year-old 1996 Olympic champion clipped several of the hurdles in his second-round heat, but as he desperately tried to make the first three he went on to hit the penultimate one too hard and dived headlong on to the track.
"It was unfortunate, but it happens to the best of us," said the two-time world indoor 60m hurdles champion.
"The Olympics are over for me, but I will keep going because I'm the best hurdler in the world."
Johnson said he would be able to handle the disappointment.
"You always have disappointments. Sydney showed me that (he finished fourth losing his Olympic title to Anier Garcia). I've just got to take it and keep going."
Johnson admitted that despite his experience, nerves may have played a part in his downfall.
Fallen only twice in his career
"I was a little nervous, but I felt I could get back into the race," said the American, who lay on the ground for several minutes kicking his heels and staring thoughtfully down towards the finish line.
"But the last stumble... there was nothing I could do about it.
"I have fallen only twice in my career and this is the second time, the first was in South Africa two years ago."
Chinese ace and world bronze medallist Liu Xiang said he was sorry to see Johnson go out in such a fashion.
"I noticed Johnson's fall, but I didn't let it affect my race," said the 21-year-old, who had been nominated by Johnson as his main threat.
"I am very sorry for Allen Johnson because I really wanted to race him in the final and also because he is my idol."
Johnson's heat was won by 1998 world junior champion Stanislas Olijars with Garcia taking second.
