Both London Olympic men’s beach volleyball champions are now finished with the sport due to injury.
German Julius Brink, 31, retired due to hip and thigh injuries, according to the International Volleyball Federation.
“My body gives me no idea as to when I can make a successful return,” Brink said. “Unfortunately I can’t see any way that I can achieve my sporting goals. It is a bitter moment, but a sensible decision.”
Brink’s partner, Jonas Reckermann, retired after the 2012 season due to back problems.
Brink and Reckermann became the first Europeans to win Olympic beach volleyball gold in 2012 after 2008 Olympic champions Phil Dalhausser and Todd Rogers were bounced in the round of 16. They were also the first European world champions in 2009, paving the way for more top European pairs to emerge from Latvia, Italy and the Netherlands.
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