In one of the most stunning meltdowns in sporting history, Paula Radcliffe collapsed in the marathon four miles from home. She had missed out on medals in the previous Olympics in Sydney and looked in fine form coming into the race. It was the hottest day of the month and the humidity was at its highest for six weeks. Debate continues as to whether she was beaten by conditions or gave up at not being able to make up ground on Japan's Mizuki Noguchi who had pulled away from her at the 16-mile stage.
Best Olympic babes | Stupidest Olympic sports | Greatest Olympians
