Yulimar Rojas will not compete at 2023 Pan American Games: "I don't want to put the Olympics at risk physically or psychologically"
The 'Queen of the Triple Jump' will instead concentrate on her mental and physical recuperation, with Paris 2024 less than a year away
Athletics
Having won a fourth world outdoor title just weeks ago at the World Athletics Championships 2023 in Budapest, Yulimar Rojas has announced that she will not compete in the Pan American Games Santiago 2023.
The biggest continental sporting event in the Americas, which takes place from 20 October to 5 November 2023, will now be missing one of its main stars, with the Venezuelan athlete nicknamed the 'Queen of the Triple Jump' deciding instead to concentrate on her preparations for the Olympic Games Paris 2024.
In an announcement posted in Spanish on social media, Rojas, who will now be unable to defend her gold from Lima 2019, explained the reasons behind her decision: "We can't be in Santiago because the competition will interrupt the preparations for the winter season, which is fundamental and key for the Olympic Games. [...] I am protecting the 2024 season and don't want to put the Olympic Games at risk physically or psychologically."
When will Yulimar Rojas return to competition?
Even though she won't be part of the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games, Rojas will compete for her third consecutive Diamond League title at the finals that take place in Eugene on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September.
"After this, it's important to rest and recuperate my strength, and to try to be at my best for the pre-season and in training over all these months to be able to face the next season in the best way."
Rojas also took the time to thank her Venezuelan fans for all the support they have given her while apologising to her compatriots and the organisers of the Pan American Games for her absence from the multi-sports showcase.
"It's always a pleasure and privilege for me to represent my country and I would have loved to have gone, but the dates are not convenient. It's difficult for me to make this decision. I'm deeply sorry to not be with you on this occasion.
"I apologise to all the Venezuelans who have bought tickets to see me jump at Santiago 2023 but this is a very difficult decision we have taken thinking of the happiness we can bring to the nation at the Olympic Games. I hope everyone can understand," she concluded.