Paris Olympics: Zablon Ekwam reveals next plan after Olympic dream ended in injury

Kenya’s 400m star, Zablon Ekwam, cut a dejected figure after he failed to complete his heat at the Paris Olympics on Sunday night.

Placed in Heat and lane 6, Ekwam started the race strongly and was well-positioned to be one of the favourites to win.

However, disaster struck in the final 200-metre stretch, where he fell after suffering what looked like a hamstring issue, much to the disappointment of the entire nation.

Kenya is yet to secure any medals in Paris, and Ekwam's stumble has only added to the country's woes.

Failing to complete the race also denied Ekwam a repechage chance, which would have given him a second opportunity to qualify for the semifinals had he not secured automatic qualification. Unfortunately, his fall ended any hopes of a second chance.

In his post-race interview, the 27-year-old expressed mixed emotions. While he acknowledged that simply gracing the Olympics was a significant achievement, he lamented that his injury deprived him of the chance to truly showcase his abilities.

"Being here is an achievement, and it is where everyone has been wishing me to be. The backup team that has been with me throughout the journey—I wanted to make them proud when they saw me on the line, but unfortunately, it did not go the way I wanted,” Ekwam stated.

The sprinter reflected on his performance in Heat 6, describing it as an easy race from which he would have progressed had the injury not struck.

“It was an easy heat, although I did not manage to reach the finish line,” he continued. “It has happened the way it has happened. I know that injuries are part of the game, and today they happened to me. I accept it and will wait for another four years.”

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Despite his disappointment, Ekwam remains resolute. He admits that his journey back to the top will be challenging, but he is determined to overcome this setback and return to his best form.

“I came here with a lot of ambition, thinking I would be the best. Given this opportunity to compete at this stage, I appreciate everyone who has been part of the journey. I know it is going to be a tough journey, but I will handle it. Everything is going to be fine,” he added.

As for his next steps, Ekwam plans to consult with his coach and management team to determine the best way forward. He acknowledged the possibility of cancelling the rest of this season's assignments, including the Diamond League, to focus on recovery and plan for next season.

“I will sit down with my coach and the management team to determine the way forward since I have several events, including the Diamond League, lined up. I just want to get back, rearrange myself, and see if I will come back stronger or if I will plan for next year.”