Leg woes keep Korpi out of world championships
Finnish skater's season cut short by aching Achilles
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| Kiira Korpi has been plagued by injuries the last two seasons. (Getty Images) |
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In a statement on the Finnish Figure Skating Association's website, Korpi said she resumed normal training this week, but her lower leg continued to bother her. With the little time she has before the start of the world championships, which get under way March 10, she decided not to chance it and risk further injury.
"I have to make decisions for the long run," Korpi said. "Next year are the Olympic Games, and I want to be there. I hope that the foot does not bother me anymore after this season."
The four-time national champion already missed last month's European championships because of the same injury.
Korpi was having one of her finest seasons to date before her Achilles started acting up, winning the Finlandia Trophy, medaling at both of her Grand Prix events and qualifying for the Grand Prix Final, where she placed fourth.
"Now we continue rehabilitation, and I turn to the future," Korpi said. "I believe that I will return to competition next season stronger, both mentally and physically."
Juulia Turkkila, the reigning two-time Finnish silver medalist, will take Korpi's place at worlds.