Nigerian defender Ashleigh Plumptre expressed her heartbreak over missing the 2024 Paris Olympics after failing to recover from an injury fully.
Plumptre played a key role in securing the Super Falcons’ first Olympic qualification since 2008. However, a March injury sustained while playing for her club Al Ittihad forced her absence from coach Randy Waldrum’s final roster.
The 26-year-old shared her lifelong dream of competing in the Olympics on social media, acknowledging her body’s incomplete recovery from the surgery required.
“Timings haven’t aligned to be in contention for the Olympic roster – a dream I’ve held since I can remember,” the 26-year-old posted on microblogging site X formally Twitter.
“Since having my surgery, I’ve worked in every area of my life to be in the best position to recover, but one thing I’ve learned is how to really listen to my body!
Despite her personal disappointment, Plumptre expressed immense pride in her teammates. “While on a personal note it’s a shame to miss out, I cannot put into words my excitement and pride in knowing I’ll be watching my @NGSuper_Falcons girls representing this flag on the Olympic stage.
“Go well, girls! Naija to the world!”
Midfielder Halimatu Ayinde will also miss the Olympics due to a separate knee injury sustained during training.
