BBC SPORT | OTHER SPORTS | Popov to miss Foster showdown

Former Olympic champion Alexander Popov has been forced to pull out of the World Championships with tonsilitis.

The Russian, who won the 50m and 100m freestyle golds at both the Barcelona and Atlanta Olympics, is in hospital in Moscow and will remain bed-ridden for several days.

Popov's withdrawal has opened the door for British star Mark Foster who will now face a fight with American Anthony Ervin for gold in the 50m in Fukuoka, Japan.

The news will also be a boost for Australian swimmer Ian Thorpe who is the second fastest over 100m this year.

Alexander Popov
Popov: Will miss out

The Thorpedo has confirmed he will race the sprint as well as the 200m, 400m and 800m.

"I think I got a cold during the IOC session," a disappointed Popov said.

"Last Saturday I developed a fever then I felt a pain in my throat. I immediately informed the Russian swimming federation and they promptly arranged a visit to a doctor.

"There is a chance of my condition worsening if I were to swim now.

"I have to take antibiotics and stay in a hospital bed for several more days."

Popov failed to find his form at the Sydney Olympics last year, where he had to settle for silver in his favourite 100m.

He remains the world record holder for the 50m freestyle and has registered the fastest time in the world this year at the distance.

The heats of the 50m start on Sunday and the 100m heats on 26 July.


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