One of Britain’s brightest medal hopes, triple jumper Phillips Idowu, this week emerged as a serious doubt for the London games. The 33-year-old has only competed on 3 occasions in 2012 and has recently missed a Team GB training session in Portugal.
Idowu and his coaching team have maintained an air of secrecy in regards to his condition and have not allowed Idowu to be seen in public since mid-June. This has left many speculating that the British number 1 may not be fit to compete on August 7th. Our sources have, however, managed to secure a rare interview with the elusive leaper and Vacant can exclusively reveal that Idowu has recently received a double leg amputation.
“It has been a tough run up to the games” reveals Idowu, sporting his trademark roguish grin.
“I have had to work hard on my technique, especially after my surgery. But I am feeling good, I am in excellent condition, I have lost quite a bit of weight and I’m flying better than ever”
Idowu missed on gold in Beijing 4 years ago, but managed to secure the world title in 2009. Many had pinned high hopes on Idowu to win Olympic gold in front of a home crowd, especially after the withdrawal of his main rival France’s Teddy Tamgho.
“I’m feeling quietly confident. I have missed a few meetings recently, but only so that I don’t aggravate my injury further”
We asked former Olympic triple jump champion Jonathan Edwards for his take on Phillips’ situation.
“Obviously a double transfemoral amputation may hinder his speed on the run up and his take-off” comments Edwards, who holds the triple jump world record with a leap of 18.29m.
“Many speculated that Phillips had picked up an injury, but his camp denied it vehemently. It’s not the end of the world, he may not beat my world record, but he should have a good crack at making the nation proud!”
Vacant Magazine 