• Athletics

Powell out of Crystal Palace meet

ESPN staff
August 5, 2011
Asafa Powell will not run at Crystal Palace © Getty Images
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Jamaican sprinter Asafa Powell has withdrawn from Friday evening's Diamond League meeting at Crystal Palace.

Powell, the fastest man in the world this year, was due to race in the 100 metres at the event in London, his final run-out before the World Championships in Daegu - where he is due to go head-to-head with world record holder Usain Bolt.

But a groin strain has forced the 28-year-old to skip the race as a precautionary measure. In his absence, compatriot Yohan Blake is the man to beat in the field.

On Thursday, at a press conference ahead of the meeting, Powell made no mention of any lingering injury concern - although he did question whether Team GB athletes would be able to cope with the pressure of performing at London 2012.

"Having a home crowd, with all the expectations, is too much," said Powell. "I'm sure the British athletes would want to disappear next year because there will be so much pressure.

"People will be expecting them to win but it's not like that. The best athlete will win."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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