Suzanna Hext Withdraws from Paris 2024 Paralympics on Medical Grounds

Para-swimming world champion Suzanna Hext has been forced to withdraw from the Paris 2024 Paralympics on medical advice. The 35-year-old, who was set to compete in the S5 100m freestyle heats on Friday morning, did not appear for her race. ParalympicsGB later confirmed that Hext would miss the entire Games.

“Following consultation between the ParalympicsGB and Aquatics GB medical teams, Suzanna Hext has been withdrawn from competition in Paris,” ParalympicsGB announced. They expressed disappointment for Hext, acknowledging her hard work and dedication leading up to the Games. The statement emphasized that athlete welfare is a top priority, and ongoing support would be provided to Hext during and after the Games.

Hext, who transitioned to Para-sport after a riding accident left her paralyzed in 2012, has faced significant health challenges throughout her career. She had to withdraw from the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021 after experiencing severe asthma attacks, which required hospitalization. In 2022, she missed the World Championships in Madeira due to sepsis, and just before the 2023 World Championships in Manchester, she spent five days in the hospital with an infection but still managed to win silver in the 100m freestyle and gold in the 50m freestyle.