GOLD COAST, Australia (AP) – Olympic gold medalist Missy Franklin swam in a local pool to test her injured back on Wednesday and is still hopeful of competing at the Pan Pacific championships.
The 19-year-old American had back spasms during practice Tuesday, two days before the meet was due to begin.
The U.S. team issued a statement Wednesday saying Franklin swam at a local pool and tested her back “with minimal discomfort,” adding that her status for the 200-meter freestyle and 100 backstroke would be determined prior to preliminary heats on Thursday morning.
“It was very therapeutic and felt great being back in the water,” Franklin said in a statement. “I am feeling drastically better every hour that goes by and hoping and praying that I will be ready to race tomorrow. We will consistently coordinate with team doctors and staff to make the best decisions for myself and my team.”
Earlier, U.S. team spokesman Scott Leightman said Franklin was resting at the team hotel.