Katarina Johnson-Thompson and Dina Asher-Smith, two of England's top medal contenders, have announced their withdrawal from the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Johnson-Thompson, a gold medalist in the heptathlon at the 2018 Gold Coast and 2022 Birmingham Games, was a strong favourite to defend her title.
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 Other notable athletes who have withdrawn from the Games include Matthew Hudson-Smith, Daryll Neita, Amber Anning, Zac Sneddon, Anna Purchase, Elliot Giles, and Jona Efoloko. Johnson-Thompson expressed her disappointment, stating that she is not yet at the level she needs to be to compete at her best due to an injury sustained earlier in the season. She has decided to focus on preparing for the European Championships later this season.
The withdrawal of these top athletes has been attributed to the demanding schedule, which has also led to Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson deciding not to pursue selection for the Glasgow Games. Other international stars who have withdrawn from the Games include Olympic swimming medallists Kaylee McKeown and Summer McIntosh, as well as 800m runner Mary Moraa. Additionally, England netball star Natalie Metcalf has withdrawn from the Games due to a calf injury and has been replaced by Ella Clark.