2009 CrossFit Games champion Mikko Salo has withdrawn from competing in the 2013 Reebok CrossFit Games. Due to an abdominal tear, Salo determined he could not compete in the multi-day competition that kicks off next week in Carson, Calif.

After sitting out of the 2012 season with a shoulder injury, Salo returned in 2013 to finish the CrossFit Games Open in first place in Europe. He followed that performance with a second-place finish at the Europe Regional with two first-place finishes in Events 1 and 7.

This is a big disappointment for Salo's fans. We all wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him compete next year.