Isinbayeva ponders time off

A perplexing failure at the world indoor championships has left Russian pole vault great Yelena Isinbayeva wondering if she should compete this season. "I need to find the spark again mentally," the Olympic champion and world record holder told...

A perplexing failure at the world indoor championships has left Russian pole vault great Yelena Isinbayeva wondering if she should compete this season.

"I need to find the spark again mentally," the Olympic champion and world record holder told reporters after failing to win a medal in a second consecutive global championship.

"To win at this level, you need to be fresh," said Isinbayeva after failing to clear 4.75 metres, well below her world indoor record of 5.00 metres.

"Maybe I am tired emotionally and need some rest," she said.

The Diamond League outdoor circuit begins in May.

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