TOKYO, Japan (AFP) — Three-time former world high jump champion Mutaz Barshim announced his withdrawal on Friday’s eve of the world championships in Tokyo because of a foot injury.

The 34-year-old Qatari, who won world titles in 2017, 2019 and 2022, also claimed Olympic gold at the Tokyo Games in 2021. He won bronze at last year’s Paris Olympics.

“I’ve been battling with a very serious injury since April,” Barshim said on social media.

“I was planning to make Tokyo my last world championships but unfortunately my foot hasn’t healed in time.

“I’ve given it my all, but we can’t force nature and must stay patient to recover.”

Barshim, the second-highest jumper of all-time with a personal best of 2.43 metres, has competed just once this season.

That saw him finish second as he cleared a best of 2.13m at the Western Asian Clubs Challenge on home turf in Doha.

“Don’t feel sorry for me not jumping,” Barshim added.

“Feel sorry for high jumping not having me.”

The world championships start on Saturday.