Rudolf Kruspel

Austrian diver Rudolf Kruspel was eliminated in qualification for the springboard event at the 1972 München Olympics. He trained with his close friend Josef Kien in Wien (Vienna), and with coach Karl Dibiasi, father of legendary diver Klaus Dibiasi, in South Tyrol.

In 1973, Kruspel suffered a dislocation of the left knee in a ski jumping accident. During his recovery, he suffered from sepsis and his left leg had to be amputated. Kruspel then worked as a graphic designer with the Austrian TV channel ORF and performed as a one-leg diver, until the diving rule “you have to start your diving jumps with both legs” was introduced, and this ended his sports career.

Kruspel eventually relied on to alcohol and other drugs, until he turned to artistic painting. He then painted landscapes, waterscapes, and portraits to earn his living.