The American men’s chances of returning to the podium at the world gymnastics championships, let alone qualifying for the Rio Olympics on the first go-around, just got a lot tougher.
Three-time U.S. champion Sam Mikulak withdrew from this month’s world championships Saturday with an injured left ankle. Alternates Chris Brooks and Marvin Kimble will both travel to worlds in Glasgow, Scotland, and a decision on who competes will be made there.
Brooks hasn’t competed at a major international meet since 2010. This would be Kimble’s first world championships.
The Americans must finish in the top eight at the world championships to book a spot in next summer’s Rio Olympics.