USA Track Star Will Miss Olympics After Freak Injury

03/05/2024 04:30

One of the more decorated distance runners on the United States track team won't be taking part in the U.S. Olympic Trials or the Games in Paris this summer.

Emma Coburn, the 2016 Olympic bronze medalist and 2017 World champion in the 3000m steeplechase, was going for her fourth Olympic Games, but suffered a brutal injury in her first race of the season.

In a message on social media, Coburn revealed she suffered a broken ankle after taking part in the steeplechase event. She jumped from the hurdle into the water, but landed awkwardly.

Coburn thought she may have just sprained her ankle, but further tests concluded torn ligaments, damaged cartilage and a fractured ankle.

"I don't really know what to say…I broke my ankle on the water jump in Shanghai. At first I thought I just sprained it, even though the pain was pretty intense," she announced on Instagram.

"When I got home, images showed torn ligaments, damaged cartilage, and a fracture in my medial malleolus. I had surgery yesterday and got a screw in my ankle for the fracture and got the cartilage cleaned up. If all goes well, I can start jogging again in 6 weeks."

"That means I'm out for the Olympic Trials. The dream of Paris is over. There has been a *lot* of heartbreak in the last couple years for me. I love this sport and nothing heals a broken heart like working hard and getting back. See ya out there later this year ✌️Big thanks to @usatf & @thesteadmanclinic for taking great care of me with the surgery!"

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Hopefully Coburn makes a full recovery and can get back to doing what she loves.