Sam Kendricks OUT of the Olympics after testing positive for Covid-19 as US pole vaulter and 2016 bronze medallist’s dad confirms his fate
Two-time pole vaulting world champion Sam Kendricks will not be competing at the Olympics after contracting coronavirus.
The American, 28, was a gold-medal favourite for Tokyo but will now have to watch from the sidelines after testing positive.
The news was revealed on Thursday by his father and co-coach, Scott.
Taking to Instagram Kendricks Snr wrote: ‘Today in Tokyo, officials informed Sam that his daily test for Cov 19 was positive, so he is out of the competition.
US pole vaulter Sam Kendricks will not be competing at Tokyo due to a positive Covid test
‘He feels fine and has no symptoms. Love you son. See you soon. #rancho_olympia #polevaulting’.
The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee confirmed the news and said Kendricks has been placed in isolation at a hotel. He is being supported by the USOPC and USA Track and Field.
Kendricks won the bronze medal at the 2016 Olympics and took gold at the last two world championships. He holds the American record at 6.06metres.
MORE TO FOLLOW