Photographs: Reuters
The Delhi Commonwealth Games have been hit by a series of pullouts by high-profile athletes, taking much of the shine off next month's multi-sport gathering which is already besieged by a raft of other problems.
Following is a list of the biggest-name athletes who will miss the October 3-14 Games for reasons ranging from injury to security.
Usain Bolt
The Jamaican triple Olympic champion sprinter pulled out because the event is taking place too late in the year.
Shelly-Ann Fraser
Like Bolt, the Olympic 100 metres champion also had problems with the timing of the Delhi Games. She subsequently tested positive for a prohibited substance that earned her a provisional ban.
David Rudisha
The Kenyan 800 metres world record holder said he is tired and feels competing in Delhi would affects his performance in next year's world championships in South Korea.
Samantha Stosur
The Australian tennis player is skipping the Commonwealth Games because it coincides with tour events.
Asbel Kiprop
Kenya's Olympic 1,500 metres champion has suffered an Achilles injury, Kenyan officials said.
Dani Samuels
Australia's discus world champion has pulled out due to security and health concerns.
Christine Ohuruogu
The Olympic 400 metres gold medallist from England suffered cramps and said she does not want to aggravate the injury.
Phillips Idowu
England's world triple jump champion has security concerns.
Chris Hoy
The quadruple Olympic gold medallist cyclist pulled out because the Games clash with the European championships, which carry qualification points for the 2012 London Olympics.
Stephanie Rice
The Australian triple Olympic gold medallist swimmer is skipping the Commonwealth Games to undergo shoulder surgery.
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