Britain’s Paula Radcliffe withdraws from marathon

LONDON — Paula Radcliffe, the world-record holder in the marathon and a star on the British sports scene, has announced that a lingering foot injury will cause her to withdraw from the 2012 London Olympics.

Radcliffe underwent a fitness test Sunday and decided that she was in no shape to compete.

The four-time Olympian had been eager to run before a home crowd and make amends for disappointing performances at past Games. She has never won a medal.

“From the day when it was announced that London had won the bid, taking part and performing well in the London Olympic Games has been a major goal in my life,” she said in a statement. “That is why it hurts so much to finally admit to myself that it isn’t going to happen.”

Charles van Commenee, leader of the track and field team, added: “This is obviously a disappointing day for Paula and for our sport.”

The British team said it plans to nominate Freya Murray as a replacement.

ALSO:

U.S. shooter Kim Rhode sets Olympic record

Missy Franklin gets an Australian wake-up call

Jason Lezak says Michael Phelps should be on swim relay team