Editorial content for the 2023 World Aquatics Championships is sponsored by FINIS, a longtime partner of Swimming World and leading innovator of suits, goggles and equipment. Canada Announces Sydney Pickrem, Mabel Zavaros Are Out of World Championships The list of big-name athletes who will not be at this month’s World Championships has grown, with Canada announcing that Sydney Pickrem and Mabel Zavaros have made the decision to withdraw from the competition in Fukuoka, Japan. Personal reasons have been named for Pickrem’s withdrawal while shoulder injuries are the reason for Zavalos’ decision. “I’ve been communicating a lot with my doctors, athletic trainers and coaches about my shoulder injuries. With their support and medical opinions, I have come to a tough decision that I need to take some time this summer to continue doing rehab and rest to help both my shoulders,” Zavaros said. “This was not a decision I took lightly and it brings me sadness knowing I cannot represent my country this summer.” One of the world’s elite individual medley performers, Pickrem was among the top contenders for a medal in the 200 IM. Zavalos and Pickrem are members of Team Canada for the Pan American Games, set for October in Santiago, Chile. “I’m disappointed I won’t be able to join the team in Japan, but I’m looking forward to Pan Ams later on this year,” Pickrem said. “I’m grateful for the support from Swimming Canada and I’m wishing all the best to the team.” Swimming Canada is firmly behind its athletes. “It’s always unfortunate when one of our top swimmers isn’t able to compete at their best, but our athletes are people first and we support them 100 per cent,” said High Performance Director and National Coach John Atkinson. “We are looking forward to seeing Sydney and Mabel represent Canada later on this year at Pan Ams. We will keep in close contact with them and support them to the best of our ability.” The World Championships will be without the likes of stars Adam Peaty, Caeleb Dressel and Penny Oleksiak, among others.
