In a surprising turn of events at the Paris Olympics, Jamaican sprinter Shericka Jackson has withdrawn from the women’s 200 meters, eliminating her chances of winning an individual medal.
Jackson, the reigning world champion and the second-fastest woman in history over the distance, had already pulled out of the 100 meters due to a leg injury sustained during a tune-up race last month.
Jackson’s absence in the 200 meters clears the path for American sprinter Gabby Thomas, who now emerges as the clear favorite for the gold.
Thomas looked strong in her qualifying heat, as did Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred, who returned to the track just 13 hours after defeating Sha’Carri Richardson in the 100 meters.
The withdrawal of such a high-profile athlete as Jackson, who has been a dominant force in the sport, has shifted the dynamics of the competition.
Fans and analysts had anticipated a fierce contest between Jackson and her rivals, but her absence now leaves the field wide open for other contenders to seize the opportunity.
In a related development, Jamaica’s Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, the standard-bearer for the women’s 100 meter race after winning Olympic gold in 2008 and 2012, bronze in 2016 and silver in 2021, also did not start the race.
Her dropout was not revealed publicly until her competitors stepped up to their starting blocks.
“It is difficult for me to find the words to describe the depth of my disappointment,” she said on social media. “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.”
