Jelle van Gorkom also had to be placed in a coma prior to London 2012 following a crash ©Getty Images

Dutch BMX Olympic medallist Jelle van Gorkom has woken from the coma he was placed in following a crash at the National Sports Centre Papendal in Arnhem earlier this month, but is still in a vulnerable state.

The Rio 2016 silver medallist sustained broken ribs, a fracture to his face and a tear in his skull along with damage to his liver, spleen and kidneys during the accident on January 9.

The 27-year-old stopped receiving medication to keep him in a coma on January 13 and has now woken.

A Dutch Cycling Federation statement read: "Jelle van Gorkom is showing good progress and is now out of acute danger.

"He has woken from his coma, although he is still not fully conscious and remains vulnerable.

"Van Gorkom responds to stimuli, makes contact and shows recognition.

"This develops very slowly and costs Jelle a lot of energy.

Jelle van Gorkom won a silver medal at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images
Jelle van Gorkom won a silver medal at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images

"It is an important first step, but doctors will not yet make a statement about the neurological consequences of the accident.

"It is clear van Gorkom will have a long rehabilitation period, with no guarantees of a full recovery."

This was the second time the 27-year-old 2015 World Championship silver medallist had been in a coma after he was in one in 2012 following a heavy fall.

On that occasion, he suffered a bruised lung, broken ribs and concussion.

This accident forced him to miss most of the preparations for the London 2012 Olympics.