The most heartbreaking moments in Olympic Games history

The Olympics isn't something that comes around very often, so when an athlete falls on the biggest stage, it's hard not to feel heartbreak and sadness.

With the blood, sweat, and tears put in by every athlete over four years, it's high stakes so any fumble, slip up or injury can be devastating. Here are some of the most heartbreaking moments in Olympic history. Get the tissues ready!

Muhammed Ali was one of the most iconic athletes in the 20th century, known for charisma, larger-than-life character, and elite boxing ability. His public appearance in 1996 left everyone emotional.

Ali was handed over the Olympic Torch at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, but the world was left heartbroken when his body was trembling from his serious case of Parkinson's disease that he likely got from his pursuit of boxing greatness.

One year after losing his wife in a car crash, Matthias Steiner defied the odds and lifted his only Olympic Gold medal at the Beijing Olympics.

To win the gold, Steiner had to beat his personal best by ten kilograms on his final lift, and when he did, Steiner collapsed to the floor in teary emotion. He held a picture of his wife up when he received the medal.

While running in a 400m semi-final heat at the 1992 Olympics, British sprinter Derek Redmond pulled up in agony just over halfway round. What happened next was one of the most tear-jerking moments in sporting history.

Redmond waved off medical attention to complete the race, but after being in discomfort, Derek's dad, Tim, emotionally helped him across the finish line in front of the world.

British marathon runner Paula Radcliffe is perhaps the greatest women's marathon runner ever, and the 2004 Olympics was her best chance of winning an Olympic Gold.

With about three miles left in the Greek heat, Radcliffe had to pull out after pulling up with a leg injury. In a heartbreaking moment, Radcliffe sat on a grass bank and cried, knowing her Olympic dreams were over.

Olympic weightlifter Janos Baranyai had a heartbreaking moment at the 2008 Olympics, dislocating his elbow after attempting to lift 326 pounds over his head.

The sound of his pain echoed around the arena as the agony of 326 pounds landing on you became apparent to everyone watching. Luckily, he was able to make a full recovery.

Sprinter Liu Xiang was China's national icon going into their home Olympics in 2008 after his gold medal success in Athens 2004.

Right before he was supposed to win gold again in the 110m hurdles, Xiang walked off the start line due to an Achilles injury. His actions shocked China, leaving people in the stands crying and heartbroken that he couldn't compete.

With the Paris Olympics just around the corner, more heartbreak, sadness, and happiness will certainly come as a result of four years of dedication.