June 27, (THEWILL) – Elaine Thompson-Herah, the two-time defending Olympic champion in the 100 and 200 metres, has withdrawn from the Jamaican Olympic Trials, effectively ending her bid for the Paris 2024 Olympics. The 32-year-old sprinter has struggled with form and fitness throughout the year, culminating in a small tear in her Achilles tendon.
Thompson-Herah’s withdrawal marks a significant shift in the landscape of women’s sprinting for the upcoming Olympics. Her absence potentially weakens Jamaica’s sprint contingent, which has dominated the women’s 100 metres at the Olympics for the past four editions. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, a 37-year-old three-time Olympic gold medallist, and Shericka Jackson, a formidable 200-metre specialist, will now lead Jamaica’s charge in Paris.
The United States stands to benefit from Thompson-Herah’s absence. The American team, led by Sha’Carri Richardson, who has been in exceptional form this year, includes Melissa Jefferson and Twanisha Terry for the 100 metres. Tamari Davis joins them for the 4×100 metre relay, forming a potent quartet that could challenge Jamaica’s dominance in the event.
Richardson, in particular, has emerged as a frontrunner in women’s sprinting. Her recent performances, including a commanding victory at the Prefontaine Classic where she clocked 10.83 seconds, have established her as the athlete to beat in Paris. Thompson-Herah’s withdrawal removes one of Richardson’s most experienced competitors from the field.
As the women’s 200-metre trials for the U.S. Olympic team commence, all eyes will be on Richardson, Gabby Thomas (the reigning Olympic bronze medallist in the event), and NCAA champion McKenzie Long. Their performances will further shape the competitive landscape for the Paris Olympics, where a new chapter in women’s sprinting history awaits.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
