Olympic 200 metres champion Gabby Thomas has officially withdrawn from the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, scheduled for September 13–21, 2025, due to an aggravated Achilles tendon injury.
Thomas, who soared to gold in the 200m, 4×100m relay, and 4×400m relay at the 2024 Paris Olympics, initially aggravated the injury back in May, and it worsened in July. Despite earning qualification by finishing third in the U.S. championships, she acknowledged she couldn’t recover in time for Tokyo.
Reflecting on her tough decision, Thomas expressed her disappointment but also underscored its necessity: “It’s tough news… but I’ve come to accept that it’s okay to be human and prioritize my health.” She also wished her Team USA teammates success, emphasizing a patient, long-term view of her recovery.
Her absence opens the door for Julien Alfred of St. Lucia—2024 Olympic 100m champion and the fastest woman in the 200m this year—to vie for a sprint double in Tokyo. Alfred had finished second to Thomas in the Paris 200m final.
This decision marks a significant blow to the U.S. team, which had dominated the athletics medal table in Paris. Still, Thomas’ decision reflects a broader, sometimes overlooked truth in elite sport: even champions must step back when the body calls for healing.
