Britania Williams
If there’s one athlete I want to see return to her best, it’s Elaine Thompson-Herah. Her talent has always been immense, However, a string of injuries and coaching changes derailed her momentum after 2021. Here’s a quick timeline of Thompson-Herah’s recent struggles.
A Career Interrupted
Peak and Setbacks: After blazing to a 10.54 s 100 m in 2021, Thompson-Herah seemed poised for more greatness. But since then, her career has been repeatedly disrupted.
New York Grand Prix Injury: In 2024, during the USATF New York City Grand Prix, she limped across the finish, removed her spikes and was carried off the track. Medical evaluation revealed a small tear in her Achilles tendon.
No Paris 2024 and a Lost 2025 Season: Because of that injury, she withdrew from the Jamaican Olympic trials and was unable to defend her 100 m and 200 m titles at the Paris Games. She subsequently missed the entire 2025 track and field season, including the IAAF World Championships in Tokyo.
Return to Training: As of November 2025, Thompson Herah returned to training with Elite Performance Track Club, under the guidance of Reynaldo Walcott, the former coach of the recently retired Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce.
Elaine Thompson Herah Will Return With a Vengeance – Here’s Why
Untapped Potential: She hasn’t logged the kind of “mileage” many athletes her age have. Several of her setbacks came during recovery, not heavy competition.
Strong Mindset: Despite the pain and disappointment, she publicly affirmed her commitment to recovery and return.
Legacy and Heart: She remains one of the most decorated sprinters in history: a two-time Olympic sprint double champion.
What Needs to Be Addressed for Her Comeback
For Elaine to return not just healthy but dominant, I believe these areas are critical:
Training Adjustments: Modify explosive training to reduce the stress on her Achilles. Additionally, incorporate more cross-training, plyometrics with lower impact, and possibly non‑running speed work.
Recovery & Treatment: A robust recovery protocol (ice baths, compression, regular diagnostics), plus ongoing physiotherapy and possibly tendon-strengthening routines.
Sports Psychology Support: Given the years of pressure, injury, and public scrutiny, working with a sports psychologist could help with mental resilience and refocus.
Footwear / Spikes Design/ Custom Spikes: Perhaps a design with more heel opening or cushioning, to alleviate Achilles strain. Also, collaborate with a brand (e.g. Puma) to develop a shoe tailored to her unique biomechanics.
What I Hope to See Next
200 m Comeback: She still has “unfinished business” in the 200 m. I’d love to see her re-enter the longer sprint and challenge again.
Renewed Focus, Not Just Speed: Rather than chasing fast times immediately, I hope her team prioritizes longevity and joint health.
Support System Fully in Place: A stable coaching environment, full recovery team, and mental health support could allow her to return stronger and more complete.
Final Thoughts
Elaine Thompson-Herah is not someone to write off. Despite serious setbacks, her spirit, talent, and proven track record mean she still has a great deal to offer. If her return to Elite Performance Track Club goes swimmingly, with the right support and adjustments, she could absolutely re-emerge as a world-class force.
I can’t wait to see what she does in 2026 and beyond — hopefully healthier, wiser, and faster.
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