England's top medal contenders, Katarina Johnson-Thompson and Dina Asher-Smith, have announced their decision to withdraw from the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Johnson-Thompson, a strong favourite for the heptathlon title, having won gold at the Gold Coast in 2018 and Birmingham in 2022, cited an injury that has not fully healed as the reason for her withdrawal. Asher-Smith, who was set to compete in the relays, has also pulled out, although the reason for her withdrawal has not been disclosed. Other notable athletes, including Matthew Hudson-Smith, Daryll Neita, Amber Anning, Zac Sneddon, Anna Purchase, Elliot Giles, and Jona Efoloko, have also withdrawn from the Games.
Johnson-Thompson expressed her disappointment, stating that she is prioritising the European Championships later this season. The withdrawals have raised concerns about the hectic schedule of athletic events, with several top athletes opting out of the Commonwealth Games to focus on other championships.