Elaine Thompson-Herah Provides Scary Update After Triumphant Return from 20-Month Injury Layoff

Jamaican sprint legend Elaine Thompson-Herah returned to competitive action during the 2026 World Relays in Botswana but admits she was nearly hampered by the injury again.

Thompson-Herah, who has not run competitively since July 2024 due to a niggling Achilles injury, anchored Team Jamaica to a gold medal in the women's 4x100m relay, clocking 42.00 seconds, ahead of Canada (42.17) and Spain (42.31).

It was a triumphant return to track for the five-time Olympics champion after a 20-month absence but she revealed afterwards that it was still a painful experience when many thought the worst was behind her.

“I must say we’re grateful that we got it done and stayed healthy,” she said. “Coming into the straight, my leg felt heavy. I could feel the hamstring, so I told myself I had to bring the team home.”

The 33-year-old says she had to withstand the pain to get the race over the line but feels it is part of her healing process even if it is still concerning.

“We came with a goal and we stuck to it. We executed today, and I’m grateful for that,” she added, alluding to the fact that the race has fueled her hunger for more success. “I would say yes, this is part of my process, part of my building.”

The Jamaican, still the fastest woman alive, has had to endure a tough time for nearly two years but from the experience in Botswana, it looks like her road to recovery is still not complete.