The 2012 Olympic 800m silver medallist Nijel Carlos Amilfitano Amos better known as Nijel Amos from Botswana has deserted his country and would not be representing it in any future games.
The 27 year-old made the announcement through DUMA FM which is among the most listened to radio station in Botswana.
In a statement through their social media handle, Facebook, the station posted.” He writes, “Please include me in your prayers for my next phase as a professional athlete. Sadly, I am pursuing going into the scene as an independent athlete – it’s what’s best for my family and I.
The 2014 Commonwealth Games 800m champion felt that his home country has not been supportive and being not appreciative on what he has done for the Nation of Botswana. This move will make him a free agent.
“When you don’t feel appreciated and undermined you got to stand for yourself. Botswana National Olympic Committee thank you so much for all the years you have been in my corner. Let fire performance begins World champion in the making. Can’t put greatness down” Amos is quoted saying.
This would be a huge blow to Botswana as the World U20 800m record holder is their most decorated athlete.
Amos won the 2012 Olympic silver medal which was Botswana’s first ever Olympic medal.
Amos is a four times African champion, African Junior Championships bronze medallist, Commonwealth Youth Games bronze medallist and the Continental Cup champion in 2014 and 2018 bronze medallist.
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