James Magnussen’s shoulder injury is so severe that it will require surgery, and means the 24-year-old will not defend his 100 freestyle title at the world championships.
Magnussen has withdrawn from a Grand Prix meet in Australia because he experienced extreme pain when swimming at a high intensity. His coach, Mitch Falvey, said the plan was to avoid surgery so Magnussen could attend the world championships in Russia this August. There, Magnussen would have attempted to become the first man to win the 100 free world title three consecutive times.
Magnussen will have surgery on the sub-scapular region of his left shoulder, and it’s not immediately known how much time the Olympic silver medalist will be out of the water. A press release from Swimming Australia indicates that Magnussen is to go under the knife in a few weeks.
“I will now focus all my time and effort on preparing for the Olympics next year,” Magnussen said. “I am looking forward to regaining full strength in my shoulder and getting back to my best performances.”
The next step for Swimming Australia is picking Magnussen’s replacement on the world championship team in the 50 and 100 freestyles, as well as the 400 free relay. Two athletes already on the team are likely choices. Tommaso D’Orsogna might move into the 100 free, since he was third in that event at the team selection meet. Matthew Abood, a veteran of the world championships, could step into the 50 free after finishing third in the splash-and-dash at nationals. Abood was selected for worlds as an alternate for the 400 free relay.
“All indications from our medical staff are that surgery is the best option,” said Australia national team head coach Jacco Verhaeren. “If there are any further issues then they can be treated sooner rather than later. This will give James more time to have the operation and begin the necessary rehabilitation before starting the preparation for the Olympic cycle.”
He will win Health for 2016!!!
He will win Health for 2016!!!
Russian Rocket will beat him in both the 50 and 100…USC sprinter
Sorry to hear the news. Get well asap. Looking forward to seeing you back in the water