WORDS FOR THE WEEKEND
We don’t know exactly what caused this all. I wouldn’t have pulled out if it wasn’t serious or if I wasn’t concerned and scared and worried about my health. Just kind of created the perfect storm that pulled me out.”
Swimming star Katie Ledecky, after getting back in the pool in the World Championships in South Korea. She had pulled out of two events this week with an illness. While she swam well Thursday, the USA finished second in the 800-meter freestyle relay. Australia set a world record in 7:41.50.
He’s still in incredible shape because he’s been spending a lot of time on his bike . ... He could be competitive at (cycling). … He’s moved on and isn’t coming back (to swimming).”
Bob Bowman, longtime coach of legend Michael Phelps, on the firmness of the swimmer’s retirement. He was talking about Phelps losing his 18-year grip on the world record in the 200 fly to 19-year-old Kristof Milak of Hungary on Wednesday.
If my teammates felt like it was toward them, I regret that part. But I don’t regret doing that to Pete . ... I gave Pete the middle finger because I felt like he wasn’t being honest with me.”
Ravens safety Earl Thomas to ESPN about giving the finger to his former coach Pete Carroll when he was with the Seahawks last year.
Thanks to an incredible medical team and a very supportive family, I hope to be back on the field as quickly as possible.”
Chargers lineman Russell Okung on Twitter Thursday revealing he has been diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism.
This is unacceptable, HAUNTING, and sickening to watch. ... As a sport/industry, we have to look in the mirror .... I have to look in the mirror...
Longtime promoter Lou DiBella on Twitter Thursday about boxing’s second death in a week. Hugo Santillán, 23, died Thursday due to injuries he suffered during a bout against Eduardo Abreu on Saturday in Buenos Aires, Argentina, according to the WBC.