Jamaican sprinting legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has opened up on the "depth" of her "disappointment" after being forced to pull out of the women's 100m at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The 37-year-old - who won gold in the event in 2008 and 2012 before a bronze in Rio and a silver in Tokyo - finished second in her heat to make the semi-finals but was a late withdrawal from Saturday's evening session.
No reason was given for her absence at first, but footage emerged of Fraser-Pryce in a quarrel with Olympic officials over gaining access to the warm-up arena, fuelling rumours that she was forced to withdraw after being denied access to the stadium.
However, those claims have been rubbished by Jamaica's chef de mission Ian Kelly, who confirmed that Fraser-Pryce was allowed into the warm-up arena via an alternative entry route but picked up a last-minute injury.
In an emotionally-charged Instagram statement late into the night, Fraser-Pryce - who will be retiring after the Paris 2024 Games - admitted that she struggled to find the words to express her dismay but insisted that she was "blessed" to have enjoyed such a glittering career.
"It is difficult for me to find the words to describe the depth of my disappointment. I know that 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," the 37-year-old wrote.
"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 today and every day."
Without Fraser-Pryce in the lineup, Saint Lucia's Julien Alfred won a historic 100m gold in 10.72 seconds, becoming her nation's first-ever Olympic champion and medallist.
American duo Sha'Carri Richardson and Melissa Jefferson won silver and bronze respectively, while Great Britain's Daryll Neita agonisingly missed out on a medal by 0.04 seconds.
Will Fraser-Pryce compete in another Olympics event?
While Fraser-Pryce was cruelly denied a shot at a fifth straight 100m medal, her Olympic career may not be over just yet, as she was selected to the Jamaica team for the 4x100m relay competition.
Round one of the women's 4x100m relay event takes place in the morning of Thursday, August 8, one day before the final, which is scheduled for 6.30pm UK time on Friday, August 9.
Ben Knapton
