Weightlifter Connelly withdraws due to injury

Maddy Connelly has withdrawn from the 2026 Commonwealth Games due to injury.

Connelly was one of seven weightlifters included in Team Wales for the showpiece event in Glasgow.

But the 2025 British champion - who was due to compete in the women's 53kg category - has confirmed she sustained an injury in training, forcing her to pull out of the Games.

"To say I'm disappointed is an understatement," she wrote on Instagram.

"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."

She added: "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 (good luck Team Wales)."

Gethin Jones, Team Wales Chef de Mission, said: "Everyone at Team Wales is devastated for Maddy.

"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 Games in Scotland begin on Thursday, 23 July.

Nikole Roberts is the first Team Wales weightlifter in action at the Games. She will compete in the women's 48kg category on Sunday, 26 July.