Fred Kerley was arrested for misdemeanor battery on Thursday. The U.S. Olympic sprinter allegedly struck a woman with a closed fist at a hotel.
What happened?
The incident occurred ahead of the Grand Slam Track event in Miami. Kerley was booked into Broward County jail after the alleged encounter with his ex-girlfriend.
Why it matters for Fred Kerley
Kerley won't compete in the 100-meter dash on Saturday and the 200-meter dash on Sunday. Grand Slam Track confirmed his withdrawal in a statement.
The police report states that Kerley grew aggressive and struck the woman in the facial area, causing her nose to bleed.
What comes next?
Richard L. Cooper, Kerley's attorney, said he is "confident that the case lacks merit and will be dismissed in short order." Kerley has pleaded not guilty in two other cases.
Kerley is a reigning Olympic bronze medalist in the men's 100-meter dash. He won Olympic medals in the 100-meter dash at each of the past two Summer Games.
The 29-year-old sprinter switched to the 100-meter dash ahead of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where he won a surprising silver. He then won the 100-meter world title in 2022.
Kerley's arrest came about four months after he was arrested for battery upon a law enforcement officer. He was also charged with domestic battery in an unrelated case from 2024.
Tom Schad, a reporter for USA TODAY Sports, reported on the incident. Kerley looks forward to going back to what he does best: winning races and inspiring millions of young athletes, said Cooper.
Kerley is one of the most well-known sprinters in the U.S. He originally competed in the 400-meter dash before switching to the 100-meter dash.
The Grand Slam Track event will proceed without Kerley. The incident has raised concerns about Kerley's behavior off the track.
Kerley's fans are waiting to see how this incident will affect his career. The sprinter has inspired many with his impressive performances on the track.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Kerley's attorney is confident that the case will be dismissed.
The incident has sparked a discussion about athlete behavior and accountability. Kerley's case will be closely watched in the coming weeks.
Kerley's withdrawal from the Grand Slam Track event is a significant blow to the competition. The sprinter was expected to be a top contender in the 100-meter dash.
The incident has raised questions about Kerley's future in the sport. The sprinter's fans are hoping that he will be able to put this incident behind him and continue to compete at a high level.