Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson withdraws from 400m final with injury

Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson withdrew from the 400m final at the UK Athletics Championships moments before the race was set to begin. The athlete decided to step away following her warm-up, appearing visibly emotional as she left the track.

Sources close to the 24-year-old athlete clarified that the withdrawal was a precautionary measure. While there is no confirmed injury, Hodgkinson felt tightness during her pre-race preparations and opted to prioritize her long-term fitness.

I wasn't feeling 100 per cent standing on the start line, so I made the tough decision to step away and not race. I didn't want to risk anything this summer. Keely Hodgkinson

The decision now raises questions regarding her participation in the London Diamond League meeting, which is scheduled for four weeks' time. Earlier this year, Hodgkinson set a new indoor world record of 1:54.87, and she has been targeting further records throughout the outdoor season.