Archibald Withdraws from Olympics Following Garden Accident
British cyclist Katie Archibald, a double Olympic gold medalist from the 2016 and 2020 Games, will miss next month’s Paris Olympics after a horrific accident left her with a broken leg.
The 30-year-old sustained the injury after tripping over a step in her garden, resulting in fractures to two bones in her leg and torn ligaments.
In an Instagram post on Thursday, Archibald revealed she had undergone surgery on Wednesday to repair the fractures and ligament damage.
“I tripped over a step in my garden and somehow managed to dislocate my ankle, break my tibia and fibula, and tear two ligaments. What a mess,” she wrote.
“It happened on Tuesday and since then I’ve been in full princess mode.
“Yesterday, I had surgery to piece the bones back together and reattach the ligaments. Hopefully, I’ll be able to go home this afternoon.”
Archibald had been set to compete in the team pursuit, madison, and omnium events at the upcoming Games.
In Rio 2016, she won Olympic gold in the women’s team pursuit and followed it with a silver in the same event and gold in the madison at Tokyo 2020.
“Massive thanks to the amazing doctors, nurses, radiographers, porters, physios, surgeons, and more at Manchester Royal Infirmary,” Archibald added.
“I apologize a hundred times over for what this means for the Olympic team, though I’ve been told it’s not my concern.
“I’m still processing this little piece of news, but I thought it better to confirm it publicly rather than let rumors swirl.”
British Cycling expressed their sorrow over Archibald’s inability to compete in Paris.
“We share Katie’s heartbreak at her injury and the lost opportunity to chase the medals she so dearly coveted in Paris,” the statement read.
“Our focus now is on providing Katie with the best possible support as she begins her recovery, and we know the entire cycling community will be behind her every step of the way.”
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