Jamaican Sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Issues A Statement After Withdrawing From The Paris Olympic Women’s 100M Race

Jamaican Olympic champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has addressed her withdrawal from the women’s 100-meter race at the Paris Olympic Games. The 2024 Games took an unexpected turn on Saturday when Fraser-Pryce pulled out just minutes before the semi-finals. The race included top contenders like Saint Lucian gold medalist Julien Alfred, silver medalist Sha’Carri Richardson, and bronze medalist Melissa Jefferson.

This event was expected to be Fraser-Pryce’s final Olympic 100m race, but she was unable to compete. Reports suggest that the 37-year-old may have sustained an injury during warm-ups, though this has not been confirmed. The sudden withdrawal left many fans confused and concerned, prompting Fraser-Pryce to release a statement.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce's statement after withdrawal from 100m due to Injury #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/Bg1X1B4fuI

— I L Y A S (@IlyazzD) August 4, 2024

“It is difficult for me to find the words to even 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,” she wrote. She continued, “The support of my fans, my country, and the larger community has rooted me in immense gratitude that has sustained me over the course of my career. With every step, with every win, you all have been there for me. My faith has always affirmed me to trust my journey. Thank you for continuing to be with me today and every day.”

The situation was further complicated by a video circulating online that showed Fraser-Pryce speaking with security guards who had blocked her from entering a warm-up track. In the video, she is heard saying, “They’ve changed the rules; we always come through this gate.” It appears the rule change affected how athletes could access the track, a situation that also affected Sha’Carri Richardson.

Despite the disappointing turn of events, Fraser-Pryce expressed gratitude for her fans’ unwavering support and emphasized her trust in the journey ahead.

What fresh level of madness is this? Olympic queen Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce isn't being allowed into the warmup area. "Dem seh rules change from yesterday." #Paris2024 😡🤯 pic.twitter.com/IedLn8wnHG

— Terry Finisterre (@terryfinisterre) August 3, 2024