Track and Field World Come Together as Emma Coburn’s “Heartbreaking” Untimely Injury Crushes Her Paris Olympics Dream

The recent headlines surrounding American middle-distance runner Emma Coburn exemplified the highs and lows of success and failure in track and field. Her ambitions of competing in the Olympics in Paris have been dashed because of a recent ankle injury, which has shocked the community. In steeplechase, she has 10 US National Championships, 3 Olympic gold medals, one world championship, one silver medal, and one bronze medal.

Emma Coburn’s route to the Olympics in Paris took a tragic turn when she suffered a serious ankle injury in Shanghai. Sharing the news on her Instagram, Coburn wrote, “I don’t really know what to say… i broke my ankle on the water jump in Shanghai. At first, I thought I just sprained it, even though the pain was pretty intense. When I got home, images showed torn ligaments, damaged cartilage, and a fracture in my medial malleolus. I had surgery yesterday and got a screw in my ankle for the fracture and got the cartilage cleaned up.” She continued, “If all goes well, I can start jogging again in 6 weeks”.

As the first American to win a world steeplechase championship since 1952, Coburn made a record at the 2017 World Championships in London by earning gold. She shattered her American record by 5x seconds at the competition, setting a championship mark of 9:02.58. She has earned prominence, particularly for her abilities in the 3000-meter steeplechase. The track and field community came together to support Coburn, conveying support as she continues on the recovery route.

Athletes and fans’ support for Emma Coburn

Heartfelt notes of encouragement are sent by fellow athletes, such as Emily Sisson, Gabby Thomas, Athing Mu, Katie Rainsberger, and many more. Alicia Felix encouraged Emma with remarks that showed a thorough comprehension of the difficulties involved in athletics. Felix stated, “This sport can break your heart like no other. The comeback is gonna be scary!! Cheering you on every step of the way!” Notably, a hamstring injury had disappointed Coburn in the World Athletics Championships last year.

In the heat 2 of the 3000m steeplechase, she finished tenth in 9:41.52, missing the final appearance. This was the first time in eight years starting in 2011, that she did not make it to the final in a global championship. Indicating the unpredictability of the sport, Gabby Thomas supported Emma Coburn while writing, “This sport can be so heartbreaking. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Your comeback will inspire us all ❤️❤️❤️ “. Emma Coburn qualified for the US team in 2012, 2016, and 2020. She became the first American woman to medal in an Olympic steeplechase competition in the 2016 Rio Olympics, winning home the bronze.

In a touching note recognizing Emma’s important contributions to Team USA, Emily Sisson offered empathy and appreciation, saying, “I’m so sorry Emma. You’ve been at the heart of Team USA for so long—always leading with poise and strength. We’re all cheering for you in your comeback ❤️”. Using expressive emoticons, Athing Mu expressed support by stating, “🥺🥺❤️ you SOOOO got this.” Some supporters also brought Coburn’s hard work and grit, something that was on display at Budapest.

After Coburn failed to reach the finals, she opened up about her injury, something she did not speak about for a long time. “I haven’t really talked about it because I’m not one to make excuses, but two weeks leading into USA’s I hurt my hamstring,” Coburn had told back then.

Highlighting that, Aisha Praught Leer wrote, “Love you and your strong heart. You can do anything 💓”. Additionally, praising Emma’s commitment, Katie Rainsberger penned, “You do Taylor 🎵 best. We know the work you’ve put in and will again. Love ya Emma ❤️❤️❤️.” Drop your wishes for Coburn in the comments section.