Olympic champion Steven Gardiner of the Bahamas will not defend his title in the 400-metres at the world athletics championships which begin this week in Eugene due to injury, he said late Monday. “Instead of putting on my spikes I’ve been advised to put on a walking boot due to a UTE Tendon Inflammation,” the 26-year-old said on social media. “Unfortunately there will be no Eugene ‘22 for me! Devastated by the news but I’m thankful for all the blessings in my career so far.” Kenyan marathon Olympic champion Peres Jepchirchir is also out of the event in the US with a hip problem.