Champion Australian swimmer Ian Thorpe is battling to overcome a bought of bronchitis just 22 days out from the Commonwealth Games, according to a news report.

Fairfax newspapers reported Thorpe's coach Tracey Menzies had confirmed the swimmer had spent more time resting than training during the past week.

"He's been pretty crook," Menzies was quoted as saying.

"Any time out of the water is not good but especially when the problem is viral, where you have got to worry about how much it takes out of the body."

Manager David Flaskas was also quoted as saying Thorpe's sponsorship engagements had been cancelled to ensure a time of total rest.

"He was supposed to be flying to Melbourne (today) to be at the launch of a new addidas concept store ... but we've had to cancel everything," Flaskas said.

Thorpe is considered a major drawcard for the March 15 - 26 games, which will attract elite athletes from 71 nations to Melbourne.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP