SWIMMING: Ledecky withdraws from Worlds 1,500 m Freestyle final

Comedian: American Freestyle superstar Katie Ledecky

Whatever is bothering Katie Ledecky, it’s enough to keep her out of the pool entirely on Day 3 of the World Championships in Gwangju, Korea.

Withdrawn from the morning 200 m heats, Ledecky has further withdrawn from the evening 1,500 m final, in which she was the favorite and the fastest qualifier (as well as being the world-record holder).

USA Swimming did not elaborate on the statement released by National Team Managing Director Lindsay Mintenko:

“A decision has been made by Team USA in consultation with Katie, her coach and the team’s medical staff for her to withdraw from the 200-meter freestyle event (and 1500m free) on medical grounds.

“Katie has not been feeling well since arriving to Gwangju on July 17 and these precautionary measures are being taken to ensure her well-being and proper recovery, and to allow her to focus her energy on an abbreviated schedule.”

That would indicate that Ledecky could be available for the 800 m Freestyle, with heats on Friday morning (26th) and the final on Saturday evening (27th). Ledecky is the world-record holder in the event, but there is no indication when a decision will be made on whether she will swim on Friday.

Spain’s Mirelia Belmonte will swim in the 1,500 m final in Ledecky’s place. The U.S. does have Ashley Twichell in the race; although best known as an Open Water star, with Ledecky out, she could contend for a medal.