Kingston (Jamaica), Aug 27 (IANS/CMC): Jamaica's Sports Minister Olivia Grange has lamented Asafa Powell's withdrawal from the marquee 100 metres event at the World Championships.

The 28-year-old was forced out of the August 27-September 4 showpiece in South Korea after failing to recover in time from a groin injury.

"He has worked so hard, and has been doing so well this season, so I know that he must be devastated, as is the entire nation, that he cannot run in the main event of the year," Grange said.

"It won't be the same without Asafa who can be very proud of what he has achieved this year. I hear there is still a chance that he may yet compete in Daegu, and I wish him speedy recovery."

Powell's withdrawal has been a huge blow for the Championships as he was expected to be fellow Jamaican Usain Bolt's biggest threat.

He is the fastest man in the world this year with a time of 9.78 seconds at the Diamond League in early July in Lausanne, and was heavily tipped to win a medal.

Powell's management team hopes the sprinter can be healthy enough to take part in the 4x100 relay on the final day of competition.