Evgeni Plushenko withdraws from men's short program
Evgeni Plushenko's quest to become the most decorated figure skater in history has ended.
The 31-year-old Russian withdrew from the men's short program Thursday after injuring himself during the warm-up.
Plushenko was seen clutching his back after botching a triple Axel warm-up. He consulted with his coach, Alexei Mishin, at the boards before taking center ice. It appeared that he would compete, but then skated over to the referee to announce his withdrawal.
The home crowd was shocked by his decision, but clapped as Plushenko took his final bow.
"On triple Axel, I step out and feel pain in my back," Plushenko said afterwards. "I didn't feel my legs after."
Plushenko helped Russia win gold in the team event, and didn't confirm his spot in the individual event after his free skate.
Had he not confirmed for the solo event, Russian champion Maxim Kovtun may have represented Russia in the solo event. Now, with Plushenko's late withdrawal, no Russian man will compete. He was very disappointed.
"I almost cried there," he said. "This is end of my career. I tried to make [it my] best"
Plushenko’s withdrawal opens the door for favorites Yuzuru Hanyu of Japan and Patrick Chan of Canada.
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