Emma Coburn, the 3000m steeplechase world champion in 2017 and a 2016 bronze medalist, is facing a devastating blow to her hopes of competing in her fourth Olympics. She will not compete in the June Olympic Trials due to a fractured ankle suffered during her first race of 2024 last Saturday, crushing hopes of more Olympic triumphs and leaving supporters in empathetic dismay.
“Although the pain was very acute, at first I assumed I had only sprained it. Upon returning home, radiographs revealed a fracture in my medial malleolus, torn ligaments, and damaged cartilage.”
“Yesterday, I underwent surgery to repair a fracture in my ankle with a screw and to clean out the cartilage. In six weeks, if all goes according to plan, I can resume jogging.”
“I will hence not be competing in the Olympic Trials. Paris is no longer a dream. In the past few years, I have experienced *a lot* of heartbreak, but heck, I love this sport, and nothing makes you feel better than working hard and succeeding. Later this year, see you out there.” Emma Coburn quoted to sportsyahoo.com
Emma Coburn: The Face of American Steeplechase
Emma Coburn broke new ground in American track and field history when she won the bronze medal in the steeplechase at the 2016 Rio Olympics, being the first female American to do so.
She repeated as champion the next year, winning gold in the global championships and partnering with Courtney Frerichs to lead the United States to an unforgettable one-two. From 2014 to 2022, Coburn won eight straight steeplechase titles on the national scene, motivating athletes with her persistent dedication to perfection.
She persevered in 2023 despite a left hamstring injury, placing second at the USA Track and Field Outdoor Championships in July. Her resolve is unshakable, even though she placed tenth in her first-round heat at the World Championships in August.
She is prepared to pursue her dreams of competing in the Paris Games, setting her sights on a top-three finish to guarantee her inclusion on the squad, with the Olympic Trials scheduled for June 21–30 in Eugene, Oregon.
Source: Sports Yahoo