Glasgow 2014: Pearson set to withdraw from 100m

SALLY Pearson is likely to pull out of the 100 metres at the Commonwealth Games, as the defending 100m hurdles champion does not want to risk her fitness for her specialist event.

Sprinter likely to focus solely on 100m hurdles crown. Picture: Getty

The Australian, also Olympic champion over the barriers, has returned to fitness following a hamstring problem in time to compete in Glasgow.

And she is ready to drop out of the 100m to focus on defending her hurdles title, for which she will face stiff competition from England’s Tiffany Porter, who beat her at the Sainsbury’s Anniversary Games last Sunday.

“The latest I can pull out of the 100m if I’m going to is 48 hours before, and I think I’m going to leave it at that,” Pearson said at a press conference.

“Right now it’s probably more likely that I am going to pull out. I have had a few discussions with a lot of people, including my coach, and we’re probably thinking I’m not at that stage where I can do two events.”

Pearson crossed the line first in the 100m final in Delhi four years ago, only to be disqualified for a false start shortly before receiving her medal.

The heats of the 100m take place at Hampden Park on Sunday.