No repeat of Super Saturday for Rutherford: String of injuries stops long-jumper defending world title in London

Greg Rutherford won't defend his world title in London next month. Credit: Press Association.

Long-jumper Greg Rutherford has announced his 2017 season is over - meaning he will not defend his world title in London next month.

Despite a promising start to the year in training, the Milton Keynes athlete says he has suffered "a string of injuries at the worst possible time".

Most recently, a badly damaged ankle ligament and sportman's hernia has forced him to admit he can no longer compete this year.

Rutherford won Olympic gold in London 2012 at the stadium where the world championships will be held in August.

He was part of the evening dubbed "Super Saturday" when Jessica Ennis and Mo Farah also topped the podium.

The father-of-two says he will attend the championships to support his British teammates and "soak up what will be an amazing atmosphere".

Rutherford recently became a father for the second time. Credit: Twitter / Greg Rutherford.