One of the top track athletes in the United States revealed some heartbreaking news on Tuesday.
Gabby Thomas announced on social media that she has to pull out of this month's World Championships in Tokyo due to injury.
Thomas, the defending Olympic gold medalist in the 200 meters, only just qualified for worlds by placing third in the 200 at the U.S. national meet.
Thomas has been dealing with an Achilles injury, and she has chosen not to push it.
She wrote a thoughtful message on social media with the news:
"I understand that it will be disappointing for some track fans to hear this news, but I've finally come to the realization that it's OK to be human and take care of myself. As an athlete you always want to keep grinding, but sometimes you simply can't outwork an injury. Sometimes it's about patience and making the right decision for the long term. All the best to my Team USA teammates fighting for medals in Tokyo."
Thomas then took to X later in the day to post a nice follow-up message:
"Wowow I was a little nervous about sharing my injury news, but I have been met with so much support from partners and track fans. It truly means so much. I love track and can't wait to get back to myself and racing the best in the world. See you guys soon (heart hands emoji)."
Thomas was a silver medalist in the 200 at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest. She was also part of the U.S. gold medal 4x100 relay at that meet.
In Paris at the Olympics, Thomas added to her 200 gold with a pair of relay golds in the 4x1 and 4x4.
She, like every other United States athlete, is well aware of the looming Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. Better to heal up now than to risk a large injury setback.
But that'll leave worlds just a little shorthanded without Thomas' athleticism and personality.
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