Olympic medallist Jenny Simpson has announced that a "chapter has ended" in her life, as she will not return to running following a serious health scare. The 39-year-old American, who is a former 1500m world champion, collapsed while pacing a mile group at a pop-up event in North Carolina in June, requiring CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator.

After being transported to UNC Rex Hospital in Raleigh, she suffered another cardiac arrest. In an emotional Instagram post, Simpson revealed that she was diagnosed with a rare inherited heart condition known as arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). This genetic condition affects the heart muscle, leading to the replacement of healthy cells with fatty and scar tissue, which compromises the heart's ability to pump blood effectively.

Simpson expressed her gratitude for her life, stating, "My future is an incredible gift. It's hopeful, and it will continue to have great purpose." However, she acknowledged the risks associated with returning to competitive running, confirming that her career in the sport has come to an end.

Throughout her illustrious career, Simpson won 1500m gold at the 2011 World Championships and a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. She also secured silver medals in the 1500m at the 2013 and 2017 World Championships. Reflecting on her journey, she expressed profound gratitude, stating, "I experienced everything - from the trenches of training to standing on the top of the podium while our national anthem filled the stadium."