Jamaica’s Shericka Jackson Withdraws from 200 Meters, Ending Hopes for Individual Olympic Medal

In a surprising turn of events at the Paris Olympics , Jamaican sprinter Shericka Jackson has withdrawn from the women’s 200 meters , eliminating her chances of winning an individual medal.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.”

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