Plushenko wins fifth title at Europeans
(AP)
Updated: 2006-01-22 14:08

Evgeni Plushenko was short of breath early in his routine.

The Russian, who has been battling the flu, didn't let that stop him from winning his fifth men's title at the European Figure Skating Championships on Saturday, however.

"It was very difficult to skate the program because I'm still not healthy," said Plushenko, who also sealed another Russian sweep of the gold medals at the continental competition with his win. "After the third minute I couldn't breathe. I was gulping for air, like a fish out of water.

"Yeah ... it was hard."

Silver medallist Stephane Lambiel of Switzerland (L), gold medallist Yevgeny Plushenko of Russia (C) and bronze medallist Brian Joubert pose after the podium ceremony of the men skating program at the European figure skating Championships in Lyon, central France, January 21, 2006. [Reuters]

It was the third time in the last four years the Russians won all four titles. They also did it from 1997-99, and are now looking to repeat the feat at next month's Olympics.

Last year, Plushenko was the only Russian not to repeat at the world championships when he dropped out with a groin injury. Now he has taken revenge against world champion Stephane Lambiel, who was second Saturday. France's Brian Joubert, who upset Plushenko at the 2004 Europeans, was third.

Plushenko opened with a quadruple jump and added seven more triples in his routine to "The Godfather."

His jumps were huge at the start. He did two triple axels, including one in combination with a triple toe loop and a double loop.

He tired near the end of his routine, showing effects of the flu, by doubling a salchow and slowing on his spins.

"I almost didn't come. But this is the final preparation before the Olympic Games," Plushenko said.