Jamaica’s chef de mission Ian Kelly confirmed to Reuters that Fraser-Pryce’s withdrawal was due to injury after reports surfaced that it had been because she was denied entry to the venue.
Footage on social media showed that Fraser-Pryce had been delayed entry earlier in the day, but Kelly said an injury was what forced Fraser-Pryce’s from the semis later in the evening.
Fraser-Pryce was looking to claim a medal in the 100m for a fifth consecutive Games, having won bronze in 2016 and silver in 2021.
“It is difficult for me to find the words to describe the depth of my disappointment,” Fraser-Pryce said in an Instagram post early Sunday (4 August) morning. “I know that my supporters share and shoulder this disappointment with me. … 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,” she added. “My faith has always affirmed my trust in the journey.”
The legendary sprinter is still scheduled to run with the Jamaicans’ 4x100m relay team.
Fraser-Pryce has won eight Olympic medals in total, including a third gold with the relay team at Tokyo 2020 in addition to her two 100m triumphs.
Two-time and reigning Olympic champion, Fraser-Pryce’s compatriot Elaine Thompson-Herah, did not make the trip to Paris after suffering an injury in May. That means the women’s 100m will have a new champion for the first time since Athens 2004.
