Injury rules Blanka Vlasic out of Olympics

High jumper Blanka Vlasic has pulled out of the London Olympics Games due to an injury.

The former world champion, who was one of the favourites to claim gold in London, has been struggling with a bacterial infection, which derailed her preparation for the games.

Vlasic, who won a silver medal at the Beijing Olympics, underwent ankle and heel surgery in January before suffering from the infection. The Croatian described the injury as a "minor setback".

"I will not be able to get into the top shape in time for Olympic Games," Vlasic confirmed on her own website.

"I'm not interested in jumping below my usual level, so it is the best thing to stay home and get the healing process to the end.

"I feel this is only a minor setback in my career and I'm looking forward to many more years of successful jumping. This is my chance for a new beginning."

The 28-year-old won gold at the 2007 and 2009 World Championships.