Seavmey has emerged as one of Cambodia’s most successful athletes in recent years, following her breakthrough success at the 2014 Asian Games.

The 22-year-old won gold in the under-73 kilogram category, a year on from winning the same event at the South East Asian Games.

Her gold medal at the 2016 Asian Taekwondo Olympic Qualification Tournament saw Seavmey become the first Cambodian to qualify by right for the Olympic Games.

The achievement earned her the honour of representing her country as the flagbearer at the Opening Ceremony of Rio 2016.

Seavmey lost her opening round bout to The Netherlands' Reshmie Oogink.

She returned to the top of the podium by defending her South East Asian Games title in Malaysia during August.

Seavmey has been suffering from a knee ligament problem for over a year, but recently underwent surgery in South Korea.

According to The Phnom Penh Post, her coach Choi Yong Sok has claimed Seavmey has been advised to remain in a wheelchair for a couple of weeks, before slowly making her return to training.

Choi claimed that the taekwondo star has received numerous messages of support from fans as she begins her recovery.

It is hoped Seavmey will be able to return to full training in the coming months, with success at the Jakarta 2018 Asian Games considered the key aim for next year.

The Games are due to take place from August 18 to September 2.

Earlier this year, Seavmey was subject of a half-hour special on the Olympic Channel called "Cambodia's search for glory".

It focused on Seavmey’s life, from working at a garment factory with her mother to creating Olympic history for her nation.

Her story was explained through a mix of archival and live footage, as well as colourful animation.