She grabbed the attention of the world, running the track in a head scarf and full-length, body-covering running suit, registering as the only female athlete from Afghanistan to enter the Beijing [Images] Olympics [Images].

- Earlier: Afghan girl braves Taliban in Olympic quest

But Mehbooba Ahadyar's act of defiance could've ended well before she anticipated.

The 19-year-old has gone missing on Friday from her training site, in Formia, Italy [Images], where she and other international athletes were based in June.

The Time website reported that, 'Ahadyar has not contacted any Afghan or international track-and-field authorities since disappearing....Italian police are investigating the disappearance, though there are no signs of foul play.

'Her bags and passport were also gone from her room, a sign that she may have left on her own.

'No scenario is being ruled out, and Ahadyar' did not have any special security detail. One possible explanation is that the 19-year-old may be seeking asylum somewhere in Europe, following repeated threats and humiliation from Muslim extremists, including false rumors that she was a prostitute.

'Nick Davies, spokesman for the IAAF, the world track-and-field governing body, said there had been no signs that Ahadyar' was having second thoughts about competing in Beijing.'

'Davies says the runner was scheduled to return to Malaysia with the other Asia-based athletes just a few days after she disappeared. Although she could still wind up competing at the Olympics, Davies says that every passing day makes it more likely that Afghanistan will have no women at the Games.'

Though not a strong medal contender, Ahadayar's will to compete braving all odds in Beijing (in the 800 m and1,500 m) had kept her in the race.

"I'm not scared of anything because God created me one day and I believe that one day I will die," she had said. "Whatever is my destiny will happen. I am choosing the right way which is for my benefit and the benefit of all young people."

Four years ago in Athens, Robina Muqimyar ran the 100 meters and Friba Rezihi competed in judo, becoming the first Afghan women ever to compete in the Olympics.

Photograph: Paula Bronstein/Getty Images