There was shock across the athletics world as legendary Jamaican sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce withdrew from the Olympics moments before she was set to take part in the 100m semifinals.
The 37-year old is a 3-time Gold Medalist and won silver in the 100m in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. She was one of the favourites for the gold this time around but Fraser-Pryce withdrew and thus did not compete.
Fraser-Pryce released an emotional statement where she thanked her fans who supported her along her Olympic journey which started back in Beijing in 2008.
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 support of my fans since my Olympic debut in 2008.
The support of my fans, my country, and the larger community has rooted me in immense gratitude that has sustained me throughout my career.
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.
However a clip emerged before the shock withdrawal of Fraser-Pryce seemingly locked out of the Stade de France along with US sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson.
The Jamaican was explaining in the clip that the rules had changed overnight and the two weren't allowed in because they didn't come in on the team busses from the Olympic Village.
TF change rules!??? pic.twitter.com/DcMrhOYvoq
— Aljavaughnie (@MAljavonie52406) August 3, 2024
While it's not confirmed that this was the reason for Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce's withdrawal as Jamaican chef de mission Ian Kelly has said that it was an injury that caused the withdrawal, but didn't go into anymore detail.
However, some have come to the conclusion that the incident played a part as Fraser-Pryce wouldn't have had an ideal warm-up after the delay in getting into the Stade de France.
Either way it's not a good look for the Olympics as one of the most decorated athletes of all time was seemingly unable prepare properly for what will be her last Olympics because of a technicality in the rules in entering the stadium.
Sha'Carri Richardson would go on to win silver in the 100m final, losing out to Saint Lucia sprinter Julien Alfred who became the first Saint Lucian to win a medal at the Olympics.
