Kaylee McKeown withdraws from Commonwealth Games with glandular fever

Five-time Olympic champion Kaylee McKeown has withdrawn from this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow after being diagnosed with glandular fever.

The 24-year-old Australian, who holds the 100m and 200m backstroke titles across Olympic, world, and Commonwealth levels, will also miss August’s Pan Pacific Swimming Championships.

Despite feeling “gutted to medically withdraw” from both major events, the backstroke specialist acknowledged that prioritising her long-term health was the necessary decision.

Fears of chronic fatigue prompt difficult decision

“What I thought a few months ago was the flu has turned out to be my body fighting glandular fever,” McKeown explained.

The prolific gold-medallist revealed she had been sick heading into her national trials and expressed concern that pushing through the severe illness could result in chronic fatigue.

Her absence will be deeply felt at the upcoming Glasgow Games, where the highly anticipated six-day swimming programme is scheduled to commence on 24 July.

Australian coach praises ‘once-in-a-generation’ talent

Swimming Australia head coach Rohan Taylor fully supported the difficult call made by his star athlete to step away from the pool.

“We all know how fierce and competitive she is – and she showed that by performing the way she did at trials,” Taylor said.

He further commended her immense natural ability and competitive spirit, describing the reigning champion as a true racer and a “once-in-a-generation athlete.”