Lysacek withdraws from world championships
Injury sidelines reigning U.S. champion
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| Evan Lysacek plays to the crowd during the 2007 exhibition in Spokane, Wash. (Getty Images) |
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(03/13/2008) - Two-time world bronze medalist Evan Lysacek has withdrawn form the 2008 ISU World Figure Skating Championships, taking place in Gothenburg, Sweden, March 17-23. Lysacek will be replaced by 2005 U.S. junior champion Jeremy Abbott.
Lysacek fell Wednesday during training, after his right blade broke while landing a triple Axel.
"The blade broke at the weld," Lysacek said. "I've been through three blades in the past three days. Obviously, something isn't right."
The fall injured Lysacek's left forearm, elbow and shoulder.
"I went to the emergency room last night," Lysacek said. "I got a bunch of X-rays and, thankfully, nothing is broken."
Lysacek is wearing a soft cast and will be in a sling for about a week. Doctors have recommended that he refrain from attempting any jumps or spins for the next two weeks.
Abbott finished fourth at the 2008 U.S. Figure Skating Championships and fifth at the Four Continents Championships .
"I wish Jeremy the best of luck," Lysacek said. "I'm obviously disappointed that I won't be there. I've been skating very well, and I really felt like the momentum was building. I'm going to continue to train as hard as I can, work to get this equipment issue straightened out, and return strong for next season."
The 2008 World Championships begin Tuesday, March 18 at the Scandinavium Arena with the compulsory dance and pairs short program. The competition concludes Saturday, March 22 with the men's free skate.