Former Trinidadian sprinter and Olympic medallist Ato Boldon has reignited debate over Elaine Thompson-Herah’s future in athletics, expressing strong doubts about her ability to return to the dominant form that once made her the fastest woman alive. Boldon, who is now a television analyst, suggested that Thompson-Herah’s long-running injury problems could mean her days as a global sprinting threat are over.
Thompson-Herah, a two-time Olympic champion in both the 100m and 200m, last competed in early 2024. Her brief season saw her finish ninth in both the Prefontaine Classic and the USATF New York City Grand Prix before she announced her withdrawal from contention for the Paris Olympic Games due to injury. The Jamaican star has struggled with persistent Achilles tendon issues throughout her career, leading to frequent absences from competition and disrupted training cycles.
Speaking on a sports radio show, Boldon admitted that his opinion was unpopular among Jamaican fans, who saw it as disrespectful to their sprinting icon. However, he clarified that his remarks were meant as an honest assessment of her physical limitations rather than an insult. “I think Elaine is done as a threat,” he said, while adding that his statement was made out of respect for the incredible achievements she has already accomplished.
Boldon highlighted Thompson-Herah’s remarkable career, noting that no other female sprinter has ever completed the 100m-200m double at consecutive Olympic Games. He argued that such extraordinary performances likely took a toll on her body. “Her odometer is a little higher than everyone else’s,” he explained, referring to the immense physical strain required to maintain world-class sprinting speeds over many years.
Despite his doubts, Boldon expressed genuine admiration for Thompson-Herah and insisted he would be delighted to be proven wrong. “I’ll eat that crow with pepper sauce if she comes back and does it,” he said with a laugh. He added that he would love to see both Thompson-Herah and fellow Jamaican legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce return to the track one more time.
While Boldon’s comments have divided opinion, they underline the growing concern over whether Thompson-Herah can overcome her injuries and regain her place among the sport’s elite. Her fans, however, continue to hold hope for one more triumphant comeback.
