Former Jamaican Olympic champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce was caught on camera arguing over access to a warm-up track at the Stade de France before she pulled out of the women’s 100m semi-final in Paris after an apparent injury scare.
Fraser-Pryce, 37, was seen in footage posted to social media embroiled in a heated discussion with stewards shortly before she was due to take to the track on Saturday.
According to The Telegraph, Fraser-Pryce and world champion Sha’Carri Richardson were initially prevented from entering the warm-up zone, a separate area adjacent to the athletics venue, in a row that may have overshadowed their preparation.
No immediate reason was given for Fraser-Pryce’s surprise absence.
Richardson went on to reach the final after finishing in second place behind Julien Alfred. Later, Alfred won the gold medal while Richardson secured silver.
World Athletics said Fraser-Pryce’s withdrawal was solely injury-related.
However, the two-time Olympic 100m champion had earlier been caught arguing with officials over being blocked from entering the warm-up track.
‘She’s [security] said they changed the rule yesterday,’ Fraser-Pryce was heard saying in the video. ‘How can they change the rule and then not say?
‘So you’re asking all the athletes who for whatever reason don’t stay in the village, they can’t come through the gate. That’s crazy.’
The Jamaica contingent confirmed on social media that Fraser-Pryce was eventually given access – before she is said to have picked up an untimely hamstring issue.
They did not, however, reveal if the access row was connected to her absence.
Reacting to the setback, Fraser-Pryce said: ‘It is difficult for me to find the words to describe the depth of my disappointment.
‘I know 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 (in Beijing).
‘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. My faith has always affirmed my trust in my journey. Thank you for continuing to be with me.’
Fraser-Pryce is competing at her final Olympics before retirement and had qualified in style through her first round heat earlier on Saturday.
