Wayde van Niekerk Withdraws from Diamond League Due to Injury

Wayde van Niekerk has withdrawn from the Diamond League final in Zurich due to a recurring back injury. The double world champion was expected to compete in the 400m race on Thursday.

What happened?

Van Niekerk's season has come to an end due to the injury. He had been managing the niggle throughout the season.

Why it matters for Wayde van Niekerk

The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee says Van Niekerk received treatment from Dr Muller-Wohlfahrt. Van Niekerk kept the injury quiet until now.

What comes next?

Van Niekerk will focus on recovery for the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia, in April. He is bitterly disappointed to miss the Diamond League final.

The 25-year-old sprinter felt the back injury flare up again after returning to training last week. He had a successful campaign at the World Championships.

Van Niekerk says the injury has plagued him throughout the summer. He had been hoping to win a Diamond League Final.

The decision to withdraw was made after consultation with coach Ans Botha. It was decided to avoid the risk of competing again at this late stage of the season.

Van Niekerk wants to ensure he can take on the 2018 season in good health and at full strength. He has not won a Diamond League Final before.

The Diamond League final will take place without Van Niekerk. He will now focus on his recovery.