Reece Prescod ran like the wind — but vanished like a whisper. The 2020 Summer Olympics felt his fire, even if the spotlight never lingered long. At 29, the Walthamstow-born sprinter has zipped up his spikes for good. He never chased stardom. Still, his farewell stirred hearts louder than a starter pistol. In a world wired for medals, he signed off with emotion.

Well, Prescod has pulled the ultimate vanishing act. Since the end of 2023, the British sprinter has been missing from major track meets, both international and domestic. No comeback whispers or injury buzz, just radio silence, palpable and weird. The spikes stayed clean, and the lanes untouched. Everything seemed mysterious until he came back on his Instagram on Monday with a message and a carousel of images (read: memories).

“After an incredible decade in athletics, the time has come for me to close this chapter of my life and begin a new one,” the Olympic star wrote. “The past 15 years have been nothing short of extraordinary. Athletics has taught me invaluable lessons, the true meaning of hard work, dedication, and discipline. I have been fortunate enough to travel the world, compete at the highest level, and represent my country with pride. It has pushed me physically, mentally, and emotionally in ways I never imagined possible…” 

Reece Prescod went on, “I am immensely grateful to Team GB, British Athletics, my former sponsor Nike, my coaches, support staff, and everyone who played a part in my journey. Your belief in me, your time, and your support made all the difference, and I will carry those memories and lessons with me forever.” Moreover, Prescod wrapped his track tale with heart, fire, and flair. He thanked athletics for molding him, saluted every soul who cheered through his highs and lows, and promised this is far from goodbye. The spikes may rest, but his drive won’t. Now, he’s chasing greatness off the track, ready to spark dreams and fuel futures with the same relentless passion.

Signing off, “With gratitude, Reece Prescod,” the athlete ended his message, leaving fans in tears. Well, not just fans but teammates, friends, rivals, and other peers joined hands to celebrate his 15-year-long career.

Great Britain’s 2020 Summer Olympics pick, Reece Prescod, gets heartfelt goodbye messages.

British sprinter Ojie Edoburun commented on Reece’s IG post. He wrote: “streets won’t forget 🫡.” The 2019 British Athletics Championship gold medalist seems to share a good relationship with the now-retired track and field star. Well, Prescod was known for his grit on the track. He broke the 10-second barrier in the 100m four times in 2018.

Speaking of breaking the 10-second barrier, the Olympian took it up a notch with a wind-assisted 9.88 seconds at the Eugene Diamond League event in Oregon. Meanwhile, another sprinting star, Eugene Amo-Dadzie, commented: “Honoured to have shared the track with you, bro. Enjoy the next phase…”

Now, the official IG handle of British Athletics also dropped their thoughts for the 29-year-old Reece Prescod. “Good luck in your next chapter, Reece!” Well, he gave British athletics its share of fireworks. He grabbed silver in the 100 metres at the 2018 European Championships. Later, he added a bronze in the 4 × 100 metres relay at the 2022 World Championships. Earlier, he blazed through the 2017 trials, outran veterans, and stormed into the World’s final.

Meanwhile, English Premier League’s star from Chelsea FC, Tosin Adarabioyo, commented: “Inspiration!” In 2023, Reece Prescod clocked a seasonal best of 9.99 seconds over 100m. By September 6, 2024, he still owned the Newham record at 10.09 and dazzled with a 9.94 in Savona that May. Speed stayed loyal, records stayed his.

Lastly, 36-year-old Olympic star Joel Fearon also shared his thoughts. He commented: “Will miss seeing you out on a battlefield, my bro 👊🏾 an amazing career and welcome to the next chapter🙌🏾.” He called Reece Prescod a warrior, a brother, and a legend of the lanes. The message hit with warmth and grit. One era ends, another begins—and Fearon’s already cheering for the encore.

Thus, Reece Prescod didn’t just leave the track. He left a trail. From medals to memories, from clean sprints to clean exits, the man ran through storms and applause alike. The spikes rest now, but the legacy sprints on. And oh, the streets won’t forget.