Sinead Diver has opened up after her emotional withdrawal from the Olympic marathon, just 1.2 kilometers into the race. The 47-year-old national record holder was captured in distressing images, doubled over by crowd barriers along the course.
Diver later explained that while she had been managing a plantar issue in the lead-up to the event, it was a sudden and unrelated quad spasm that forced her to stop.
“I’m absolutely devastated to have had to pull out of my second Olympic Games,” Diver wrote on Instagram. “I was dealing with a plantar issue, but that wasn’t why I had to withdraw. During the warm-up, my quads started to spasm unexpectedly. I hoped it would ease as I began running, but by the first kilometer, my legs locked up, and I couldn’t bend my knees. I’m still trying to figure out what caused this.”
The seasoned athlete also reflected on the tough journey leading up to the race, including the impact of online criticism related to her injury.
“The lead-up to this race has been one of the hardest times of my life,” Diver shared. “The harsh online comments took a toll on my mental health, and I believe the stress played a role in my body breaking down like this. The last few weeks have been incredibly tough.”
Despite the negative commentary, Diver chose to focus on the support she received from fans and fellow athletes.
“To those who continue to criticize, this is what happened. If you choose not to believe it, that’s your choice. But to everyone who showed kindness and empathy, thank you. We’re all human, and sometimes things happen that are beyond our control, no matter how much we prepare.”
Diver’s unexpected withdrawal has also reignited discussions about the selection process for Australia’s marathon team. Lisa Weightman, a decorated runner, was initially left out of the squad, leading to calls for Diver to be replaced due to her injury.
Commentating on the event, three-time Olympian Tamsyn Manou expressed her sympathy for Diver, acknowledging her hard work and achievements.
“I really feel for Sinead,” Manou said during the broadcast. “She earned her spot as our fastest athlete, and there’s no doubt about that.”
However, the selection controversy remains unresolved. Weightman, who went on to win the Sunshine Coast half marathon in 70 minutes on the same day, voiced her frustration with Athletics Australia’s decision-making process.
“I am disappointed by the outcome, especially after working so hard to qualify,” Weightman said in a statement. “Athletics Australia’s internal systems need to be addressed to ensure future athletes are treated fairly.”
The debate over the selection process even sparked an on-air exchange between Manou and co-commentator David Culbert, who emphasized that athletes are chosen to finish the race, not just start it.
As the controversy continues to unfold, questions remain about the impact of the selection process on Australia’s marathon efforts at the Games.
