Jamaican Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce breaks silence after shock no-show from women's 100m semifinal

Jamaican track legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has broken her silence after controversially failing to appear for the women’s 100m semifinals.

The 37-year-old was a shock absentee when the runners made their way to the starting blocks for the second semi-final, reportedly due to a late rule change.

The omission of Fraser-Pryce from her semifinal run was the day’s biggest talking point at Stade de France, with the winner of eight Olympic medals unable to get the chance to earn a 100m medal at what would have been a fifth consecutive Games.

Fraser-Pryce has released a statement via social media. However, the sprinter failed to explain the reason for her withdrawal.

“It is difficult for me to find the words that describe the depth of my disappointment,” she said on Instagram.

“I know that my supporters share and shoulder this disappointment with me. I am truly Blessed to have the steadfast support of my fans since my Olympic debut in 2008.

“The support of my fans, my country, and the larger community has rooted me in immense gratitude that has sustained me throughout my career.

“With every step and win, you all have been there for me. My Faith has always affirmed my trust in my journey.

“Thank you for continuing to be with me today and every day.”

The official word from the Jamaican Athletics Federation was that Fraser-Pryce has suffered an injury.

However there is speculation that her absence was caused by a dispute over entry into the stadium.

Video of Fraser-Pryce alongside US favourite Sha-Carri Richardson shows the two being denied entry at a gate allegedly due to arriving in a private vehicle rather than the athletes’ team shuttle bus.

Fraser-Pryce and Sha’Carri Richardson were instructed to enter via a different gate, and while Fraser-Pryce was absent, Richardson went on to race in the heat and claimed silver in the final to St Lucia’s Julien Alfred.

While it is still unclear what caused Fraser-Pryce’s withdrawal or if she even entered the arena, she is still listed to run in Jamaica’s 4x100m relay team, making an injury-forced withdrawal unlikely.