Weightlifter Maddy Connelly has been forced to withdraw from the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow after picking up an injury in training.

Connelly, the 2025 British champion, was named as one of seven weightlifters in Team Wales for the Games and had been due to compete in the women’s 53kg category.

She confirmed the news herself on Instagram, admitting the timing couldn’t have been crueller ahead of what would have been her first Commonwealth Games.

“To say I’m disappointed is an understatement,” she said.

“Representing Team Wales on the Commonwealth stage has been a huge dream of mine and it’s heart-breaking not to be lining up with my team-mates in Glasgow and fighting for that place on the podium.

“Right now, my focus is on recovery. I’ll take the time to heal, work hard and come back even stronger.”

Despite missing out on competing, Connelly made clear she’ll still be firmly behind her team-mates throughout the Games, adding:

“Although I won’t be competing, I’ll be supporting every member of Team Wales throughout the games and cheering them on every step of the way.

“Diolch (thanks) to everyone who has supported me on this journey. It means more than you know.

“Pob lwc Tim Cymru.”

Team Wales Chef de Mission Gethin Jones led the tributes to Connelly, praising the effort she’d put in to book her spot on the team in the first place.

“Everyone at Team Wales is devastated for Maddy,” he said.

“We know how much representing Wales at a Commonwealth Games means to her and the dedication, commitment and hard work she put in to earn her place on the team.

“We know this setback won’t define her. Maddy is a talented athlete with a bright future ahead, and we have every confidence she’ll come back stronger.”

The Commonwealth Games get under way in Scotland on Thursday, 23 July, with Nikole Roberts set to be the first of Wales’ weightlifters in action. She competes in the women’s 48kg category on Sunday, 26 July.

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