Thorpe’s reputation on line

RETURNING superstar Ian Thorpe admits he risks tarnishing his legacy after deciding to resume his swimming career following a four-year lay-off.

Thorpe, who won nine Olympic medals including five gold before walking away from the sport at the age of 24 in 2006, announced his much-anticipated return at a chaotic press conference in Sydney yesterday.

The 28-year-old confirmed he has been back in training since September and is targeting a berth on the 100m and 200m freestyle relay teams in the 2012 London Games.