Sprint king Usain Bolt's attempt to become a professional footballer with Australia's Central Coast Mariners collapsed yesterday as his trial period was terminated after contract talks failed.

The eight-time Olympic champion, 32, had been trying out with the A-League side since arriving in August, hoping to fulfil a childhood dream to become a soccer player. The Jamaican, superstar's quest garnered worldwide attention, which intensified when he scored two goals in a pre-season friendly.