Toni-Ann Williams tore her Achilles

Jamaica’s Toni-Ann Williams has been plagued by injuries in recent years. She missed last year’s Worlds and Panamerican Championships due to an elbow injury. She tore her Achilles in 2017 which caused her to miss the NCAA season (she competes for the University of California, Berkley). In 2016, Williams represented Jamaica at the Rio Olympics as the first ever Olympic gymnast for the country.

Last week, Williams tore an Achilles in her other leg while competing on floor at an NCAA meet. She was at her fifth season which she got to do due to redshirting in 2017. However, since it’s already midseason now, it is too late to redshirt and the injury ended her NCAA career. Unfortunately, it also likely means the end to her chances to qualify to the Olympics again. Recovery from Achilles tears is usually quite long and the most realistic way for Williams to qualify to the Olympics would be through the all-around competition at the World Championships in October.

Thank you everyone for all of the love and support ♥️ It’s been very emotional, but I’ve completely ruptured my other Achilles’ tendon. It’s absolutely devastating and I am heartbroken, but I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to do a 5th year with the most amazing girls♥️ pic.twitter.com/G3sv1tNAsb

— Toni-Ann Williams (@_toniwilliams_) February 19, 2019

Photo: Cal Athletics