Irish swimmer Daniel Wiffen has been forced to withdraw from the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore on medical grounds.
The Armagh native has been dealing with the aftermath of appendicitis and was only able to finish eighth in the final as he tried to defend his men’s 800m freestyle on Wednesday.
Wiffen had been scheduled to race in the 1500m freestyle on Saturday, but will no longer take part.
“Unfortunately, Daniel Wiffen has had to withdraw, on medical grounds and due to the ongoing effects of appendicitis he dealt with in June, from the remainder of competition at the World Aquatics,” Swim Ireland said.
Speaking after his 800m final, Wiffen spoke of his pride at reaching the decider despite his discomfort.
“I know last time I spoke, I didn’t think I was going to make the final but we got in there, we got eighth place, last in the final,” he said.
“Obviously, not my best showing, from last year winning the Olympics to coming eighth in the final. But honestly, I’m happy to be in the final, still progressing.
“Still getting those nerves up. That’s what sport’s about, trying to get myself comfortable and I was definitely comfortable in that race.
“I’m pretty sure I was leading at one point, and then I got to the 400 and then (my) stomach was in pieces.”
