( Jamaica Observer) Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is still trying to come to grips with having to pull out of the semi-finals of the women’s 100m at the Olympic Games in Paris on Saturday.
Fraser-Pryce unexpectedly walked away from the semi-finals minutes before she was scheduled to race, sending ripples around the sporting world.Jamaica’s team manager Ludlow Watts later said the two-time Olympic champion reportedly picked up an injury during the warm-up before event, which led to her withdrawal. It is understood that she reportedly hurt her hamstring.
In a social media post addressed to her fans, Fraser-Pryce, who is participating in her fifth Olympic Games, wrote: “It is difficult for me to find the words to describe the depth of my disappointment. I know that my supporters share and shoulder this disappointment with me.“I am truly blessed to have had the steadfast supports of my fans since my Olympic debut in 2008. The support of my fans, the country and the larger community has rooted me in immense gratitude that has sustained me through my career,” she said
Fraser-Pryce, who had qualified for the semi-finals after placing second in her first round heat in 10.92 seconds (0.8m/s), second fastest of the round, added: “With every step and win, you all have been there for me, my Faith has always affirmed my trust in my journey.
“Thank you for continuing to be with me today and every day,” said the decorated sprinter who ended the World Athletics Championships in Budapest in 2023 with an injury in the finals of the women’s 4x100m relay.
Under the new rules which World Athletics have put in to ensure there are no empty lanes in major championships, a reserve should have taken her place but it appears the organisers did not have enough time. France’s Gemima Joseph could have been the athlete to take her place.
