LONDON - Former world champion Elise Christie is likely to miss the 2022 Beijing Olympic Winter Games as the British short track speed skater is suffering a sustained ankle injury.

Christie, 31, competed in the previous three Winter Olympics and has been hoping to make her fourth appearance at the Olympics next year in Beijing.

However, the 10-time European champion struggled to find her form during the World Cup season due to ankle injury and was outperformed by teammate Kathryn Thomson in all individual events.

"There's a lot to say, but for now... this photo speaks to what I cannot say," wrote Christie on social media with a picture showing her hugging Thomson in tears.

"The ankle injury I sustained set me back too far. My heart is shattered," she added. "So much love to all my supporters and fans. I'll be back soon."

According to World Cup results, the British short track speed skating team is likely to have only one spot in women's events at Beijing 2022.