England's medal contenders, Katarina Johnson-Thompson and Dina Asher-Smith, have withdrawn from the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Johnson-Thompson, a gold medalist in the heptathlon at the 2018 Gold Coast and 2022 Birmingham games, and Asher-Smith, who was set to participate in the relays, will not compete.
Other notable withdrawals include Olympic medalists Matthew Hudson-Smith and Daryll Neita, as well as Amber Anning, Zac Sneddon, Anna Purchase, Elliot Giles, and Jona Efoloko, all of whom announced their decisions on the day of the opening ceremony. Johnson-Thompson expressed her disappointment, stating, 'I'm heartbroken to miss this year's Commonwealth Games.
Although my earlier season injury has improved, I haven't reached the level required to compete at my best.' She plans to focus on the European Championships later this season. The reason for Asher-Smith's withdrawal has not been disclosed, but it is speculated that she is prioritizing the upcoming European Championships in Birmingham. The crowded schedule has posed a challenge for several top athletes, including Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson, who opted not to pursue selection for the Glasgow Games. Other international stars who have withdrawn from the Games include Olympic swimming medalists Kaylee McKeown and Summer McIntosh of Australia and Canada, respectively, and Mary Moraa of Kenya, a rival of Hodgkinson's in the 800m event.
Additionally, England netball star Natalie Metcalf withdrew from the Games due to a calf injury and has been replaced by Ella Clark.