2017 IAAF World Championships

Ryan Hill Withdraws From 5K Final Due To Illness

Ryan Hill Withdraws From 5K Final Due To Illness

Ryan Hill withdrew from the men's 5,000m final due to a viral illness, USATF announced on Saturday from the IAAF World Championships in London.

Aug 12, 2017 by Taylor Dutch
Ryan Hill Withdraws From 5K Final Due To Illness
Ryan Hill withdrew from the men's 5,000m final due to a viral illness, USATF announced on Saturday from the IAAF World Championships in London. 

"Hill was evaluated by team doctors Saturday. Although his illness is not believed to be related to the norovirus outbreak affecting some athletes and teams in London, doctors have advised him not to compete," the official statement said.

The world indoor silver medalist safely qualified for the final after finishing fifth in his semifinal heat. For Hill, London marks his fourth time representing Team USA at a global championship. Aside from his silver medal from the 2016 IAAF World Indoor Championships, Hill's best finish at a championship was seventh in the 5K at the 2015 IAAF World Championships in Beijing. 

"Very disappointed that I will not be racing tonight due to illness. Thank you to everyone that has supported me through this tough season," Hill wrote on Twitter. 


As USATF stated, Hill's illness is not believed to be related to the norovirus outbreak, which has affected as many as 30 athletes who are staying at The Tower Hotel in London. Isaac Makwala is the most notable case as he was prevented from competing in the 200m heats and the 400m final while in quarantine after contracting the norovirus.

Olympic silver medalist Paul Chelimo will be the only American competing in the final today at 2:20 p.m. CT.