American sprinter Tori Bowie has died at the age of 32, her management agency confirmed on Wednesday
Bowie was a three-time Olympic medallist, winning gold in the 4x100m at the 2016 Games in Rio alongside silver in the 100m and bronze in the 200m, and there was more success a year later in London at the World Championships.
She was once again was part of a winning 4x100m relay team before adding individual 100m gold to her collection, with Bowie the only American woman since 2011 to have an Olympic or world title over the distance.
Bowie converted from long jump in 2014, before returning to the event five years later as she finished fourth at the World Championships.
Her agency Icon Management said in a statement: “We’re devastated to share the very sad news that Tori Bowie has passed away.
“We’ve lost a client, dear friend, daughter and sister. Tori was a champion...a beacon of light that shined so bright!
“We’re truly heartbroken and our prayers are with the family and friends.”
“USATF is deeply saddened by the passing of Tori Bowie, a three-time Olympic medalist and two-time world champion,” Max Siegel, the CEO of USA Track and Field, said.
“A talented athlete, her impact on the sport is immeasurable, and she will be greatly missed.”
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, two-time Olympic 100m champion, took to social media to pay tribute to Bowie, who she regularly came up against on track.
She tweeted: “My heart breaks for the family of Tori Bowie. A great competitor and source of light. Your energy and smile will always be with me. Rest in peace.”
American sprinter Noah Lyles wrote: “I can’t believe this. I had just heard word of her going to be with her sister back home and now this. This breaks my heart to hear and I will keep the family in my prayers.”
