Paris Olympics: Shericka Jackson withdraws from 100m

Jamaican sprinter Sashalee Forbes is set to compete in the 100m dash as the track and field events begin at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games on Friday.

The replacement of Shericka Jackson by Forbes has been confirmed by Jamaica's Athletics Manager, Ludlow Watts, who confirmed that Jackson will now focus on the 200m race only.

"She has relinquished her spot in the 100 meters," Watts told Reuters. "The only information we have is that she will not be participating in the event. Sashalee Forbes will take her place. I don't know the reasons; I'm just dealing with the outcome."

Concerns about Jackson's fitness emerged after she experienced what was described as a 'cramp' during the women's 200m race at the Istvan Gyulai Memorial on Tuesday 9 July. The incident at the Bregyó Athletic Center in Székesfehérvár has sparked rumors and intensified scrutiny as the Olympics approach.

Despite the speculation, no official updates have been provided by her MVP Track Club. Coach Stephen Francis, in a recent interview with Jamaican media, offered limited information about Jackson's condition. When asked about her health, Francis said, “That is something you’ll have to address to her medical personnel, but as far as I know, she appears to be okay.”

While Francis remained tight-lipped about Jackson, he showed confidence in another athlete, Tia Clayton, predicting strong performance from her in the 100m. Local pundits have echoed his optimism, anticipating Clayton's success in the prestigious sprint.

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