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Diving chief warns of Davey burnout

24/07/2008

Britain's performance director has warned diving wonder-kid Tom Daley could burn out before the London 2012 Olympics.

The 14-year-old is considered one of Britain's best chances for a gold medal during the London games having already qualified for Beijing.

Steve Foley told the BBC, though, that there were fears he may not even make it to 2012.

"We have no idea if he'll go any further after Beijing," he said.

"The constant media expectation will take its toll. We need to be careful and try to balance things."

Foley has come under intense media scrutiny after qualifying for the Beijing games and winning the European Championships at the age of just 14.

"He's fully aware that the media help make your career so he's not being silly about it, he's very smart," Foley added.

"But there comes a time where we've got to have a break and get on with some serious training.

"That will be the biggest thing for Tom over the next four years because of his profile, the expectation and the fact it's in London."

Daley claimed he had absolutely no expectations going into the Beijing Olympics, due to start on August 8th.

"Lots of people say 'go and get the gold' and I just think I've got no chance. I don't think I'll get anywhere near a medal," he said.

"I am just going for the experience and hoping to do a good performance. Everyone is expecting me to get a medal but I don't think I'll get one."