Starc withdraws from World Athletics Championships

Athletics Australia confirms the withdrawal of high jumper Brandon Starc from the Australian Team competing at the World Athletics Championships, beginning this Friday in Oregon, USA.

Starc had been scheduled to compete on Day 1 of the championships, however has opted to sit out of competition in order to focus on his final preparations for the Commonwealth Games next month.

The Tokyo fifth placegetter travelled with his teammates from Athletics Australia's staging camp in Seattle, USA but this afternoon announced he would not compete with them in Oregon, citing the end stages of a foot injury that has hampered his preparations.

“I am extremely disappointed not to be competing in Oregon this weekend. The World Athletics Championships is one of the most exciting competitions we have as track and field athletes, and when going into these competitions, I always strive to be in peak shape,” Starc said.

“While I have been progressing in my preparations, I have chosen to give myself every opportunity possible to defend my gold medal in Birmingham in front of my family and friends.”

Athletics Australia General Manager, High Performance Andrew Faichney said that while Starc's absence would be felt within the wider Australian Athletics Team, he was understanding of the difficult decision that had been made.

“We’re disappointed for Brandon, but support him in his decision to focus his efforts on the Commonwealth Games. With a bit more time behind him, we have no doubt that he’ll be ready to do something special in Birmingham. We wish him all the very best in these final weeks, and look forward to him rejoining us for competition in the UK,” Faichney said.

While not previously announced on the team, Riley Day had been selected for the World Athletics Championships in the 200m but withdrew due to a hamstring injury. She will be taking the time to complete her rehabilitation ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

Athletics Australia asks that Starc and Day's privacy is respected at this time.

By Sascha Ryner, Athletics Australia
Posted: 14/7/2022