Back in the day, it was common practice for some nations to take out one of their finalists and replace them with a team mate with a better percentage chance of results.
It’s normal in team sport, of course. The coach makes the decision who to put in for the big game.
Nile has been carrying a sore wrist throughout the competitions in Nanning, China, that has been superbly managed by the medical staff. However, in light of this and with the priority being Nile’s long-term gymnastics career, Max Whitlock will replace Nile in the all-around final. Max qualified by right as the third placed GB gymnast but was initially excluded from the final by the “only two gymnasts per federation” rule. Nile still intends to compete in the high bar final on Sunday 12th.
Nile said “I’m obviously very disappointed, as I’m feeling great otherwise and have been really enjoying my first World Championships but my wrist was pretty sore today so I made the decision to pull out and save myself for the high bar final. The medical staff and coaches are unanimous that this is the right decision to make. I’ll be right behind Max and Dan Purvis in the all-around and can’t wait for the high bar on Sunday.”
(via Full Twist)
Gymnastics Coaching.com 