U.S. champion Konnor McClain will miss world championships

2022 U.S. women's gymnastics champion Konnor McClain will not compete at the upcoming World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Liverpool, England.

The 17-year-old took to Instagram Wednesday, announcing that a back injury would hold her out of this month's U.S. women's world selection camp and, subsequently, the Worlds.

"unfortunately, i will not be participating in this years world selection camp in 2 weeks due to a back injury," wrote McClain in the post. "although this is very upsetting after such a successful year. i’m ready to come back next year stronger and healthier! i want to thank my family and coaches for all the support!"

Leading to the August's U.S. championships, where McClain won her first senior title, she had been riddled with injury and illness. Coach Anna Liukin said at the time that two weeks prior they weren't even sure she would participate in the event.

The U.S. women will determine their World Championships team at a selection camp 21-22 October in Houston, Texas. U.S. runner-up Shilese Jones, and 2021 world all-around silver medallist Leanne Wong are expected to take on Olympic floor champion Jade Carey and team silver medallist Jordan Chiles with berths to the squad on the line.