The Pan American Games in 2023 will not feature Yulimar Rojas
With Paris 2024 less than a year away, the ‘Queen of the Triple Jump’ will instead focus on mental and physical recovery
Yulimar Rojas, who won her fourth world outdoor title at the World Athletics Championships 2023 in Budapest just weeks ago, has decided not to compete at the Pan American Games Santiago 2023.
The biggest continental sporting event in the Americas, which takes place from 20 October to 5 November 2023, will now miss one of its main stars, with the Venezuelan athlete nicknamed the ‘Queen of the Triple Jump’ deciding instead to concentrate on her preparations for the Olympic Games Paris 2024.
In an announcement posted in Spanish on social media, Rojas, who will now be unable to defend her gold from Lima 2019, explained the reasons behind her decision: “We cannot go to Santiago because the competition will disrupt preparations for the winter season, a vital part of the Olympic Games.” As a result, I intend to protect the 2024 Olympic Games from physical and psychological threats.”
Can Yulimar Rojas return to competition soon?
Despite not competing in Santiago 2023, Rojas will compete for her third consecutive Diamond League title in Eugene on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September.
As well as thanking her Venezuelan fans, Rojas apologized to her compatriots and the organizers of the Pan American Games for her absence.
“After this, it’s important to rest and recuperate my strength, and to try to be at my best for the pre-season and in training over all these months to be able to face the next season in the best way.”
“It’s always a pleasure and privilege for me to represent my country and I would have loved to have gone, but the dates are not convenient. It’s difficult for me to make this decision. I’m deeply sorry to not be with you on this occasion.
“I apologise to all the Venezuelans who have bought tickets to see me jump at Santiago 2023 but this is a very difficult decision we have taken thinking of the happiness we can bring to the nation at the Olympic Games. I hope everyone can understand,” she concluded.
