Jamaican hurdler Jaheel Hyde announced his retirement from competitive athletics

The Pan American 400m hurdles champion Jaheel Hyde announced on his 28th birthday that he was retiring from competitive athletics. He made the announcement on his Instagram account.

“When I started doing sports, my goal was to become the best, to reach the top, and to inspire a generation of athletes coming up behind me. I was blessed with the talent to excel in both track and football, but the Lord guided me toward track, and I never looked back. That path led me to experiences I could have only dreamed of winning countless medals, setting world records as a junior, and competing against the very best in the world. Now, as I step away from the sport that has given me so much, I do so with a heart full of gratitude. Track and field has shaped me into the person I am today, teaching me discipline, perseverance, and the power of belief. I want to sincerely thank my coaches, past and present, for pushing me beyond my limits and molding me into the athlete I became. To my family, friends, and fans your unwavering support fueled me through every high and low”, wrote Jaheel Hyde in his statement.

The Jamaican athlete finished sixth in the 400m at the Eugene World Championships, also has a bronze medal from the 2018 Commonwealth Games, is the Pan American Champion for 2023, and reached the semifinals at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

“Though I’m closing this chapter of my competitive career, my love for the sport will never fade. I hope my journey has inspired young athletes to chase their dreams with everything they have. Thank you, track and field you have given me more than I could ever ask for”, finishes his statement.

Jaheel Hyde also competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, part of the 4x400m relay team, finishing 6th in the final. He is also a two-time World U20 champion and a two-time World U18 champion, as well as Youth Olympic Games champion.