August 3, 2024 – When the Egyptian equestrian, Nayel Nassar, arrived at the Chateau de Versailles gardens in Paris, he was hoping to take home a medal. After concluding his first Olympics in Tokyo with the 24th spot in individual jumping, Nassar was all set to take the podium finish at the 2024 Paris Olympics. However, for the equestrian, the Paris Olympic dream came to an abrupt end. Unfortunately, the show jumper’s equine partner Coronado sustained a minor injury, forcing the duo to withdraw.

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce our withdrawal from the 2024 Olympic Games,” Nassar wrote in his official announcement on Instagram. It’s an anti-climactic end for Nassar. This left Bill Gates’ equestrian daughter Jennifer Gates heartbroken. “Gutted. The hardest but the right decision,” the 28-year-old commented on her husband’s Instagram post.

The incident just felt even more heart-wrenching to the Egyptian equestrian because Coronado was in good spirits initially. The equine had passed “the first veterinary inspection earlier this week.” Yet things took a turn for the worse when the horse sustained the injury following his first test.

“As per the rules, no substitutions are allowed after the first horse inspection is completed,” which left the equestrian with no option but to withdraw.

While Nayel Nassar and Coronado could’ve competed if they pushed the limits, he prioritized his equine partner’s health. Jennifer Gates and the Olympian husband not only train and compete with their horses but also deeply care for them. The couple didn’t want to jeopardize their beloved Coronado’s long-term health in pursuit of Olympic glory. “Our ultimate goal is to ensure that Coronado can return to peak form,” added Nassar.

Interestingly, after the Egyptian equestrian made an official announcement of his withdrawal, Jenn also took a moment to address the episode.

Jennifer Gates supports Nayel Nassar’s decision

A few hours after the Egyptian made an announcement of his withdrawal from the Paris Olympics, Jenn took to her Instagram story to acknowledge her husband’s decision. Sharing the announcement post from Nassar, the American show-jumper penned, “The horse’s welfare always come first.” She further added, “A huge disappointment to not be able to compete but I am still just as proud as ever of @nayelnassar and team @evergatestables.” 

She concluded her acknowledgement by wishing other participants the best for the Individual Jumping event. “Good luck to all the competitiors in the individuals, we are cheering you on.”

More so, after declaring his decision of withdrawal, Nassar also expressed his gratitude to his sponsors, family, and friends. “Your unwavering encouragement and belief in us have been incredible, and we are truly grateful for the immense support we have received,” penned the Egyptian show-jumper.

While this setback left Nassar disappointed and gutted, the horse welfare remains his utmost priority  and he stays “hopeful and committed to returning stronger and more determined than ever.”