Olympic champion Ryoko Tamura, who damaged ligaments in her right knee last week, said Tuesday she has opted to compete in the upcoming world championships for a record fifth consecutive title in the women's 48-kilogram class.
Tamura made the decision after consulting the national team doctor earlier in the day when she arrived in Tokyo from Fukuoka for her final tune-up for the July 26-29 world meet in Munich, Germany.
"I've been recovering steadily, but I think this is one of the biggest tests in my career. My desire to win a fifth straight title has never been changed even after the injury struck me," said Tamura, who appeared at a press conference with her right knee taped.