Molly Seidel, one of America’s top long-distance runners, has announced on Instagram that she will miss the Olympic Trials Marathon in Orlando on Saturday.
“I decided yesterday along with my coach that I will not be lining up for the Olympic Trials Marathon this coming Saturday. About a month ago, my knee took this huge turn for the worse…I got an MRI that showed I had broke my patella and partially tore my patellar tendon,” Molly shared on Instagram.
Seidel, who has previously shown her prowess on the international stage, including a remarkable performance at the Tokyo Olympics where she secured a bronze medal in the marathon, was considered a strong contender for the U.S. Olympic team.
Seidel’s journey to the top of long-distance running has been nothing short of inspirational. Coming from a strong collegiate running background, she made her mark in professional running with a gritty performance in her marathon debut at the Olympic Trials Marathon in 2020. Her ability to compete at the highest levels, including her Olympic medal win, in addition to her openness about mental health, has made her a role model for many young runners.
Fans and fellow athletes alike will undoubtedly miss Seidel’s presence at the trials but look forward to seeing her back on the race course, demonstrating the strength and determination that have defined her career thus far.
“I’m really f***ing bummed. There is no other word for it. I have dreamed about making this team and defending my bronze medal at the Paris Olympics since the last Olympics. But, I know that the team that we will be sending will be the most incredible, the most competitive team we can be.”
While the USA Olympic Trials Marathon will miss Molly’s competitive spirit, the event will still showcase the depth and talent of American long-distance running, as new and returning athletes vie for a spot on the Olympic team.
