News - 31.05.2010

Usain Bolt Withdraws From adidas Grand Prix

NEW YORK (May 31, 2010) — Double Olympic and World champion Usain Bolt has withdrawn from the adidas Grand Prix due to injury, organizers announced Monday.

Organizers were notified on Monday afternoon by Bolt’s management team that Bolt is suffering from an inflammation of his tendon. He provided the following statement:

“I developed a stiffness in my Achilles tendon last week and sought medical attention. After careful consultation with Dr. Hans Müller-Wohlfahrt at his clinic in Munich, I have been advised to take a 2-3 week break as a precautionary measure to avoid risking further damage. Regrettably I will have to miss the IAAF Diamond League meeting in New York on Saturday, June 12. I am well aware of the disappointment for the fans in New York and around the world, but I hope to return to New York as soon as possible.”

The sixth edition of the adidas Grand Prix on Saturday, June 12, will still be the deepest in history as 26 Olympic and World champions and five IAAF Diamond League ambassadors have been announced for the meet. The event, held at Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island, will be the fifth stop on the inaugural 14-meet, international Diamond League circuit.

“I know I echo the wishes of all New York area track fans when I say that we wish Usain a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him back next year,” meet director Mark Wetmore said. “The new Diamond League format has helped us put together world-class fields in all of the disciplines, so track and field fans will still experience the best the sport has ever seen in New York City.”