Poland's star middle blocker Jakub Kochanowski has brought his national team season to an end, announcing he will undergo knee surgery after his rehabilitation failed to produce the hoped-for results.
The 29-year-old, one of the pillars of the world's No. 1 ranked side, wrote on Instagram that he will not recover in time for this summer's European Championships and will now focus on his recovery and the upcoming club season.
"Everything I have tried so far to rehabilitate my knee has not worked, so I have decided to have surgery," Kochanowski wrote, as reported by iVolley Magazine. "Unfortunately I won't make it in time for the European Championships, so I have to concentrate on my rehabilitation and on the season with my club."
The news is a significant blow for Poland, who were preparing for a busy summer of international competition without one of their most influential players. Kochanowski has been a fixture of the national team for years, playing a key role in Poland's rise to the top of the world rankings.
The middle blocker also had a message for the fans: "I will keep my fingers crossed for you and I will try to stop by the arena before I leave, give you a thumbs up and take a photo with you. Poland is the best."
Kochanowski will now focus on his rehabilitation and on preparing for the new season with his club. His absence will be felt at the net on both offence and defence, but Poland can lean on a deep roster as they look to defend their status as the team to beat in Europe.
Sources
