Australian sprinter Josh Azzopardi has expressed his frustration after missing selection for the men’s 100m event at the Commonwealth Games, claiming he was “absolutely robbed” of a place in the team.
Australian Athletics on Monday confirmed its 86-member squad for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, which begin on July 23. The men’s 100m team will feature Rohan Browning, Lachlan Kennedy, and Eddie Nketia.
Azzopardi had lodged an appeal against Browning’s selection, arguing that his performances during the qualification period were stronger and warranted inclusion in the individual sprint event.
Taking to Instagram, Azzopardi voiced his disappointment with the selectors’ decision.
“I feel absolutely robbed to have not been given a 100m selection,” he wrote.
He questioned the reasoning behind the decision, pointing to what he described as a consistent and successful domestic season. Azzopardi also thanked supporters and those involved in his appeal process during what he called a stressful period.
Despite the setback, Azzopardi will still represent Australia in the men’s 4x100m relay, where he will compete alongside Browning and the rest of the sprint squad.
The selection controversy has again placed scrutiny on Australian Athletics’ selection panel, chaired by Peter Hamilton, following previous debated decisions, including the omission of marathon runner Lisa Weightman from the Paris 2024 Olympic team.
While disappointed, Azzopardi ended his statement on a positive note, saying the relay squad is ready to perform in Glasgow and that it remains an honour to wear the green and gold for Australia.