Jamaican 400m hurdler and 2023 Pan American Games gold medalist Jaheel Hyde has announced his retirement from track and field at age 28. Hyde shared the news on Instagram on his birthday, Sunday, while reflecting on his journey and achievements.
Hyde’s career began with great promise, winning numerous junior titles, including gold in the 110m hurdles at the 2013 World Youth Championships, gold at the 2014 Youth Olympics, and consecutive 400m hurdles titles at the World Junior Championships in 2014 and 2016. He also won eight gold medals at the Carifta Games across various disciplines.
Hyde’s transition to senior competition was equally successful, as he continued to amass accolades on the international stage. His breakthrough came at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia, where he earned a bronze medal, which he would later upgrade to silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in England—a testament to his enduring talent and determination. He represented Jamaica at three Olympic Games (2016, 2020, 2024) and three World Championships (2017, 2022, 2023), finishing sixth in the 400m hurdles final at the 2022 World Championships.
In his Olympic debut at the Tokyo Games in 2021, Hyde made it to the semi-finals of the 400m hurdles, demonstrating his ability to compete at the highest level. His career reached a major milestone in 2022 when he reached his first major final at the World Championships in Oregon, USA. There, he finished a commendable sixth in the 400m hurdles with a career-best time of 48.03 seconds, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure on the world’s biggest stage.
“When I started in sports, my goal was to be the best and inspire future athletes,” Hyde wrote. “I was blessed with talent in both track and football, but track was where I thrived, leading to medals, world records as a junior, and competing with the best.”
The pinnacle of Hyde’s senior career came in 2023 when he secured his first and only senior gold medal at the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile. This victory in the 400m hurdles not only marked the culmination of his track and field journey, but also earned him a third nomination for the prestigious National Sportsman of the Year award, further affirming his place among Jamaica’s elite athletes.
“I step away with a heart full of gratitude,” Hyde wrote. “Track and field shaped me into the person I am today, teaching me discipline, perseverance, and belief.” He thanked his coaches, family, and fans for their unwavering support throughout his career. Hyde also expressed gratitude to his long-time sponsor, PUMA, for their constant backing.
While Hyde’s competitive career ends, his passion for track and field remains. “Though I’m closing this chapter, my love for the sport will never fade,” he said. “I hope my journey has inspired young athletes to chase their dreams,” Hyde said.
As Hyde steps away from the track, his legacy as one of Jamaica’s most accomplished junior hurdlers endures, leaving an impact on the next generation.
