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FIFA World Cup 2026 posterCommonwealth Games dream on hold for Sam Ruthe
Sport Nation • May 23rd, 2026 11:02 am
Sam Ruthe ahead of Samuel Tanner in the Mile at the Cooks International Classic | Photo: Michael Dawson/Athletics New Zealand
Sam Ruthe has pulled the pin on the 2026 Commonwealth Games, opting to prioritise the World Athletics U20 Championships as he works his way back from injury.
The teenage sensation has been sidelined with a stress fracture suffered while playing football, ending hopes of a rapid return for Glasgow.
After a breakout season that saw Ruthe smash Sir John Walker’s national mile record and break the U18 world record in Boston, the 17-year-old admitted he didn’t want to arrive at a major event underprepared.
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"I probably wouldn't be in my best form. For me it's really important turning up to a race and being in the best form because then mentally I'm there." Ruthe said on his YouTube channel.
"It's so much more satisfying turning up to a race knowing that you're in good enough form to actually compete."
There was further concern this week after Ruthe underwent scans on a sore foot, but fears of a second stress fracture were cleared.
Coach Craig Kirkwood said the focus is now on getting Ruthe fully fit for the World U20 Championships in August before a possible European campaign later in the year.
