Russians make Evgeni Plushenko their choice for 2014 Sochi Olympics

By David Wharton

Jan. 22, 2014 10:05 AM PT

Three-time Olympic medalist Evgeni Plushenko will return to the Games as a discretionary choice for the Russian figure skating team.

Plushenko risked missing the 2014 Sochi Olympics after struggling with back surgery and finishing second in his country’s recent national championships.

But on Wednesday, the Russian figure skating federation selected him for its sole entry in the men’s event.

Plushenko, who won gold at the 2006 Winter Games, reportedly skated for judges behind closed doors earlier this week.

A statement on the federation’s website said the full team will be submitted to the Russian Olympic Committee and the Ministry of Sports for approval on Thursday.

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David Wharton

David Wharton has filled an array of roles – covering the courts, entertainment, sports and the second Persian Gulf War – since starting as a Los Angeles Times intern in 1982. His work has been honored by organizations such as the Society for Features Journalism and Associated Press Sports Editors and has been anthologized in “Best American Sports Writing.” He has also been nominated for an Emmy and has written two books, including “Conquest,” an inside look at USC football during the Pete Carroll era.

Russians make Evgeni Plushenko their choice for 2014 Sochi Olympics

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