Idowu withdraws from British team for World Indoor Championships

WORLD triple jump champion Phillips Idowu has withdrawn from the World Indoor Championships in Doha next weekend.

UNPREPARED: World triple jump champion Phillips Idowu will not defend his world indoor title after withdrawing from the British squad for Doha (Getty Images)

The 31-year old, who was set to defend his indoor title in Qatar, has only competed four times this season with a fourth place at February's Aviva Grand Prix his best performance to date in 2010.

And having become a father for the second time last week, the Londoner admitted he didn't feel prepared to compete on such a big stage at this stage of the season.

 "I am gutted not to be representing the Aviva GB Team in Doha and passing up the opportunity to defend my title," said Idowu.

"However the late arrival of my baby boy has meant that my training has been severely disrupted and I decided after talking with my coach that I'd not had the preparation we agreed was needed to do the British team proud.

"I was hoping to avoid this by competing in a larger than usual number of events early in the season, but it hasn't worked out that way.

"Instead I will increase the training with a focus on the European Championships in Barcelona. I wish the team the best of luck in Doha."

UKA head coach Charles Van Commenee admitted the team would be weaker without Idowu, but has always cited the European Championships as the target for the elite performers in 2010.

"I am disappointed that Phillips is not competing this week as he was a clear medal prospect for us," said Van Commenee.

"However I need to respect his decision and I look forward to him resuming winning ways in Barcelona in the summer."

The British squad, led by team captain Jenny Meadows, fly to Qatar on Tuesday with the first day's competition taking place on Friday.

Aviva has been proud to have helped and supported the Aviva GB & NI junior, senior and disability teams as they prepare for all major events and championships since 1999. Visit www.aviva.co.uk/athletics for more information