Keely Hodgkinson releases statement after quitting in tears – 'I made the tough decision'

Keely Hodgkinson, Britain's 800m Olympic champion, dramatically withdrew from the 400m final at the UK Athletics Championships in Birmingham on Sunday, visibly emotional just moments before the race. Her swift exit, attributed to a 'little twinge' and a decision not to 'risk anything this summer,' has sent ripples through the athletics world, raising questions about her readiness for a season packed with major competitions. This precautionary move is particularly significant as Hodgkinson was using the 400m event as a strategic speed-work opportunity, aiming to sharpen her first-lap pace to ultimately challenge Jarmila Kratochvilova long-standing 800m world record. Having battled a torn hamstring that sidelined her for much of 2025 and limited her performance at last year's World Championships, her caution reflects a focused approach to preventing further injury ahead of critical meets like the Prefontaine Classic, London Diamond League, and the European Championships in Birmingham. Meanwhile, her training partner, Georgia Hunter Bell, clinched the 800m title at the same championships, setting a new championship record. Hodgkinson's immediate focus will be on ensuring full fitness for her upcoming international schedule, with the London Diamond League on July 18 circled as a potential date for her audacious 800m world record attempt. Her coach, Jenny Meadows, has downplayed serious injury concerns, insisting the withdrawal was a tactical decision to protect her for the 'exciting summer ahead'. Fans and rivals alike will now be keenly watching her recovery and subsequent performances, particularly as the prestigious World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest looms in September.