Earlier today Team Omega Pharma-QuickStep announced that its time trial World Champion Tony Martin, who was implicated in an accident earlier this week, left the university hospital in Zurich this morning and has returned to his home near Münsterlingen in Switzerland.

Medical examinations conducted on Tony Martin yesterday caused doctors to diagnose Martin with several small facial fractures resulting from the crash on his training ride in Switzerland. The final medical check-up performed at the hospital additionally revealed small fractures in Martin's left shoulder blade and upper arm.

Doctors have determined that given the nature of the fractures Tony Martin won't need surgery.

"My feeling today is much better than the last two days. I am happy that the fractures won't need surgery. I'm at home now. For me it's really important," Martin said in a statement from his home.

Now that Martin has had two nights to recover from the chock caused by the accident, he is thankful that the trauma wasn't more serious and grateful for being alive.

"The day of the accident I was thinking: Why has this happened to me? Now I have to say I was lucky. It could have been much worse. I would like to thank all the medical staff for their great job."

The support from Martin's family, friends and supporters has had an immense effect on Martin during these troublesome days.

"My family was always with me and I felt the affection of many people close to me. My first objective now is to take all the time necessary to heal well. I thank all those who with their messages gave me a support in these difficult days. I really appreciate them."

Tony Martin, his doctors and team management have yet to set a date for the return of Martin to training and then racing. At this point it is, therefore, uncertain if Martin will be able to take part in the 2012 Tour de France.