Craig Stevens finally confirmed today that he will be withdrawing from the 400m freestyle event at the Athens Olympics, clearing the way for Ian Thorpe to defend the title he won in Sydney four years ago. In a televised announcement broadcast on Channel 7’s Today Tonight current affairs programme, Stevens said he would now concentrate on his preferred 1500m event and the 4x200m freestyle relay..
A statement from Thorpe’s camp, confirming whether or not he will take up the offer of a swim in the 400m, is expected tomorrow. However, given that he is undefeated for over 7 years it seems unlikely that he will turn down this second chance.