Injury-hit Sarah Hendrickson doubts her gold medal chances

USA women's ski jumper Sarah Hendrickson has admitted that the pain which she has in her right knee has her doubting her chances to win a medal at the 2014 Winter Olympic Games.

The 19-year-old has struggled in practice sessions so far, with her surgically-repaired right knee causing her problems ahead of the final at the RusSki Gorki Jumping Centre on Tuesday.

She told reporters: "I still have pain in my knee. In training, there's no need to jump too far. I don't want to sacrifice anything.

"Of course, I have my injury in the back of my head. I know I can get injured again, but I have to push it out of my mind."

Hendrickson requested a lower gate during Sunday's practice session, meaning she was less likely to build up the speed which her competitors were reaching, therefore hindering her chances.