Johnny Weir’s been a media blitz after his strong performance at the Vancouver Winter Olympics, and he was thought to be in contention for a medal at the World Championships this month. But we got word today, via Weir’s publicist, that he won’t be competing at the Championships. From Johnny:
I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support during the recent Olympic Games. The 2010 Olympics will be a memory that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I feel that I skated two of the best performances of my career, making my coaches, my family and above all- myself very proud. But I would not have been able to skate the way I did without the encouragement of my fans worldwide.
And while I am still embracing my Olympic memories and have the momentum to move forward, I have decided that it is not advantageous at this time for me to partake in the World Championships in Torino, Italy. After my sixth place finish in Vancouver, I believe that I must take time to reassess my strategies and goals. While I understand the importance of competition, I feel that a short break at this time would be personally beneficial to me. I know all may not share my stance, but I can assure everyone that I will be re-energized after I’ve had time to rework my technique. I want to be a better competitor and win medals for my country and I hope everyone can respect my decision to take this time off.
Once again, I want to thank everyone who supported me this season. Specifically, I would like to thank my coaches Galina Zmievskaya, Viktor Petrenko, Nina Petrenko, Priscilla Hill and David Wilson for helping me make my Olympic dreams a reality. I would also like to thank my family and friends for their never- ending support. Finally, I want my fans to know that I love them and I work every day to make them proud. I will continue to work hard and I hope my work for next season will be the most exciting of my career.
It’s disappointing, but I’m also thrilled that he’s talking about next year. I figured we’d seen the last of Johnny competing; Instead, it looks like he’ll be on the ice for a while.
on Mar 9th, 2010 at 6:06 PM
we love u johnny! can’t wait for next year!
on Mar 9th, 2010 at 6:14 PM
I love seeing him anywhere, on his reality show, on talk shows, at award shows and, of course, on the ice. Go Johnny go!
on Mar 9th, 2010 at 6:36 PM
Johnny Weir is the most wonderful person in the whole world and if he thinks that taking some time off will help him and he will come back next year as he has said in this statement then more power to him. I am so proud of him for realizing that he needs some time off. He looks so tired and worn out and I congratulate him for trying to get better. He deserves credit not criticism. Love you Johnny. See you next year and godspeed.
on Mar 9th, 2010 at 7:16 PM
I was hoping he would compete and do well at the WC. He is the most talented skater in the world, no contest. I really hope Hollywood doesn’t seduce him into leaving the sport. I really just discovered Johnny Weir, and I wouldn’t be interested in watching figure skating without him. He’s really stolen my heart and I admire him so much. He’s become the voice of an entire generation, and I don’t even think he realizes what an impact he is having on so many people. Good luck to you Johnny Weir! Your fans love you so much, including me!
on Mar 9th, 2010 at 7:18 PM
you made us all proud at the Olympics, Johnny! enjoy your time off you deserve it!
on Mar 9th, 2010 at 7:48 PM
That’s a shame. I was anxious to see more of Johnny this season.
In other news, any word on whether Lysacek is skating at Worlds? If his Facebook feed is any indication, he’s single-mindedly obsessed with doing this Dancing With the Stars thing.
Probably not the right mindset going into a skating event, so I’m guessing he’ll taking a pass on Torino too.
Maybe Plushenko will be the only guy to show up.
on Mar 9th, 2010 at 8:14 PM
How sad for us fans, but Johnny, we do understand. Just make sure you come back to us! And you’re right…..we LOVE the hell out of you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
on Mar 10th, 2010 at 9:20 AM
Deborah wrote: Johnny Weir is the most wonderful person in the whole world.
Um, hyperbolic much? The most wonderful person in the world?
on Mar 10th, 2010 at 3:45 PM
Not only did Johnny withdraw from Worlds for a rest-but on Perez Hiltons column today Johnny was not asked on the post Olympic “Stars On Ice” tour because he is too gay and Ice is family friendly. Well hello, whenever Rudy Galindo skated (he’s butch) the arenas were sold out because he had such a huge following like Clay Aiken. It didn’t seem to hurt Rudy’s career. Is being homophobic PC right now in the skating community. Everyone should read this weeks Billy Masters column to see what another skater has been doing or where. Be good, Johnny Weir!
on Mar 12th, 2010 at 1:05 AM
JW did a great job at the Olympics and redeemed himself for the terrible long program in Turin.
After seeing him partying at the Oscars I knew it was best that he withdraw or risk having a poor skate at the WC.
At any rate you go boy, you “done” yourself proud.