New Zealand's shot put champion Val Adams could well decide against defending her world title in Beijing next month.
Adams continues to struggle in her comeback from shoulder and elbow surgery, finishing fourth at the latest Diamond League meeting in Stockhom.
New Zealand shot put athlete Val Adams. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Struggling for top form since her return a month ago, the 30-year-old 4 time-world champion could only manage fourth place behind German winner Christina Schwanitz, who threw 20.13 metres.
Taking second spot was American Michelle Carter with a best throw of 19.24m. Hungarian Anita Marton was third with 18.74m.
Adams produced fouls on her last four throws.
Adams, who won Olympic titles in 2008 and 2012, the latter after finishing second only for original winner Nadzeya Ostapchuk to be disqualified for doping, threw a disappointing 18.69m, well below her best of over 21 metres.
Schwanitz will win the shot put discipline in the Diamond League rankings if she competes at the Zurich-hosted finals on September the 2nd.
Adams returned to competition on July the 4th at the Diamond League meeting in Paris but is yet to taste victory after a pre-operation winning streak of 56 consecutive victories that dated back to 2010.
Reports say she appeared frustrated at Stockholm, and she now may well decide to not compete at the World Championships and instead concentrate on her fitness.
When asked recently if she was going to compete in Beijing she said she wasn't sure.
Adams has previously said winning at the Rio Olympics next year is her priority.
The World Championships in Beijing start on August 22nd.