Decorated Jamaican sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is speaking out after her pursuit of another Olympic medal was derailed at the 2024 Paris Games following a curious series of events.
Fraser-Pryce, an eight-time Olympic medalist, missed Saturday’s 100-meter semifinal at Stade de France due to injury, according to Jamaican chef de mission Ian Kelly, after she was blocked entry from a track earlier in the day, Team Jamaica posted on X.
In clips on social media, the 37-year-old Olympian — who is participating in her fifth Games — is said to have told officials, “They’ve changed the rules. We came through this gate before but now they’re saying athletes who have left can’t use this gate,” Reuters reported.
Kelly dismissed speculation that Fraser-Pryce was unable to enter the venue.
“There is no truth that she was not allowed to enter the stadium,” Kelly said in a statement to Reuters.
“Unfortunately she was not able to compete due to an injury sustained during her final warmup.”
The legendary sprinter is still scheduled to run with the Jamaicans’ 4x100m relay team, though the injury could put her availability in question.
Fraser-Pryce later spoke out in a candid Instagram post.
“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,” she wrote Saturday. “I am truly Blessed to have had the steadfast support of my fans since my Olympic debut in 2008. The support of my fans, my country, and the larger community has rooted me in immense gratitude that has sustained me throughout my career.”
Fraser-Pryce, who previously confirmed the Paris Games would be her last, thanked supporters for being with her “today and every day.”
“With every step and win, you all have been there for me. My Faith has always affirmed my trust in my journey,” she penned.
“Thank you for continuing to be with me today and every day.”
Fraser-Pryce first claimed gold in the 100-meter at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, followed by London four years later.
She was awarded bronze at the Rio de Janeiro Games in 2016 and won silver in Tokyo three years ago.
St. Lucia’s Julien Alfred took gold in Saturday’s 100-meter final with Team USA’s Sha’Carri Richardson securing silver.