Lolo Jones Challenges Olympic Training’s Medical Practices

Lolo Jones, a seasoned athlete with Team USA, has raised concerns following a troubling incident at the Olympic training complex in Lake Placid, New York in February 2025. While testing bobsled equipment, Jones experienced severe discomfort as her sled reached speeds close to 90 mph. At the track’s end, intense back pain and loss of bladder control signaled an issue.

Having participated in the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics as a hurdler and the 2014 Winter Olympics as a bobsled brakewoman, Jones was familiar with physical strain. This felt different.

I’ve never had that happen to me ever in my life, Jones said.

After consulting the athletic trainer, arrangements for her treatment were made. However, the head of sports medicine unexpectedly canceled it, citing her prior visit that week. Unaware of this cancellation, Jones arrived at her appointment, only to face the painful truth.

On top of dealing with her injury, Jones faced additional challenges. Officials revoked her access to sports medicine, alleging misconduct, yet didn’t specify the violation nor offered a formal hearing. Despite criticizing the situation, Jones did not receive further medical evaluation or detailed diagnostics.

Jones continued to compete. She and her pilot, Elana Meyers Taylor, completed the World Championships in Lake Placid, finishing sixth. Medical imaging later revealed a severe spinal injury, including a herniated disc and spinal fluid leak, requiring surgery.

Financially burdened by the injury, Jones faced expenses approaching $100,000, underscoring financial disparities in Olympic sports. Many athletes rely on modest stipends amid steep training costs. Despite her income, Jones felt the financial strain profoundly.

Jones advocates for better due-process rights for Olympic athletes contending with medical decisions and competitive circumstances. She criticizes the current grievance procedures as prohibitive and disproportionately empowering governing bodies.

The incident has altered Jones’ perspective on Olympic involvement. She questions if she would allow her future children to pursue such paths, given her experiences.

I will not let my daughter be an Olympic athlete, she stated.

Jones reflects on her long-standing commitment to Team USA and expresses disappointment at the lack of support she received during a critical time.

I’ve given so much to Team USA, and when I needed Team USA back, they absolutely abandoned me, Jones expressed.