Devastated Jessica Fox forced to withdraw from world championships in ‘heartbreaking’ decision

Superstar paddler Jessica Fox has withdrawn from this month’s slalom world championships, robbing the Sydney event of its major drawcard.

The three-time Olympic champion was racing the clock to compete in the world titles on her home course in Penrith after surgery to remove a tumour on her kidney.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Jessica Fox recovering after kidney surgery.

While the 31-year-old is making a strong recovery after sitting out two World Cup events in Europe, she won’t be ready to be at the start gates by September 29 when racing starts.

Fox posted on social media she was “absolutely devastated”.

“For the first time in 15 years, I won’t be on the startline at the world championships. Unfortunately, I just won’t be ready in time. I need to put my health and recovery first after surgery,” she wrote.

“I’m absolutely devastated to be missing this one — a world championships on my home course where I first watched my heroes at the Sydney Olympics, saw the first Aussie world title by Rob Bell in 2005, the course where I’ve grown up and learnt to paddle, trained every day to be the best.

“A home worlds is a once in a career opportunity and I was so excited and looking forward to it.”

Paddle Australia boss Kim Crane said Fox, a 14-time world champion as well as six-time Olympic medallist, would be missed by the home team but had to put her recovery first.

“Jess’s health and recovery is the only thing that matters right now, and she has our full support,” Crane said in a statement.

“While naturally we’re disappointed for Jess and the fans that won’t have the chance to see her compete at the home soil world championships, she’ll be in amongst her Australian teammates, cheering and supporting them ... so we all look forward to seeing her in Penrith for the event.”

Fox’s younger sister Noemie, who won gold in the kayak cross event in Paris, now takes over as the headline act while fellow Olympians Tim Anderson, Tristan Carter and Lucien Delfour are also in the Australian team.

“Special shout out to the girls Kate and Noemie. We are the reigning world champions in teams and I’m heartbroken to not be able to defend this one with you 💔 but can’t wait to see you shine on the water ,” Fox added.

The event will be held at Penrith Whitewater Stadium, a legacy venue from the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, from September 29 to October 4.