WASHINGTON (AFP) – Reigning world and Olympic 400 metre (m) hurdles champion Sydney McLaughlin said on Friday a knee injury will keep her from competing in the World Athletics Championships that open next week in Budapest.
The 24-year-old American, who set the 400 hurdles world record of 50.68 seconds last year at the World Championships in Eugene, said in a social media posting she has a “minor knee issue” and cannot race.
“I am sad to share that I must withdraw this year’s World Championships meet in Budapest,” she posted.
“After consulting with my doctors and coaches, I need to take care of a minor knee issue so that I can be fully healthy for next year’s Paris Olympics. I look forward to seeing everyone back on the track soon!” McLaughlin, racing the flat 400m this season, won the United States title last month at Eugene with a world-leading 48.74 seconds.
