World heptathlon champion Katarina Johnson-Thompson expressed her uncertainty regarding her physical condition for the Paris Games following painkillers administered to address issues with her Achilles tendon, although she insists on being at her strongest before an Olympics.
Johnson-Thompson had to withdraw from the European heptathlon championships in June after completing only three events due to injury, subsequently missing two weeks of training and receiving multiple doses of painkillers for her Achilles problem. The 31-year-old believes that the condition has now stabilized.
Since then, Johnson-Thompson has competed sparingly but achieved a personal best in the 200m sprint at the British championships, delivered an impressive shot put throw in Loughborough, and recorded a commendable long jump distance of 6.54 meters during her most recent appearance at London's Diamond League.
"I think I’m in good shape," she remarked after that event. "The signs indicate I am regaining form." Johnson-Thompson was pleased with achieving a personal best of 6.50 meters in the long jump, marking her first attempt since the Budapest championships five years prior.
She explained that tendonopathy or Achilles tendinitis is an ongoing issue that affects many athletes and can fluctuate between good and bad states. "It's something I've learned to manage," she added, but acknowledged that predicting the outcome of a heptathlon event remains challenging.
Johnson-Thompson achieved 14th place at her Olympic debut in 2012, followed by a sixth-place finish in 2016 and withdrawal from competition in 2020 due to injury concerns. Reflecting on past experiences, she emphasized the mental and physical obstacles faced during each Olympics and stated that her preparation for Paris is at its highest level yet, despite any lingering disappointments.
"The joy of athletics lies in the opportunity," Johnson-Thompson said. "I've discovered a new way to embrace competition leading up to these Olympics. I simply want to be ready when it comes time for that final 800m."
Having secured two world titles, two Commonwealth medals, and one European silver, an Olympic medal remains elusive for Johnson-Thompson. Nevertheless, she has moved past any unfulfilled aspirations with her performance in Budapest, where winning the world title provided reassurance that she can compete at a high level once again.
"I feel confident and worthwhile if I manage to win," Johnson-Thompson concluded. "The anticipation of being on that starting line is what motivates me."
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