13 June 2023 , 08:32
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Former Olympic sprinter Tori Bowie died of complications from childbirth, according to her agent.
Bowie passed away at her home in Florida in May, aged 32, leaving the world of athletics in mourning. She was a 4x100m relay gold medalist at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she also won silver in the 100m and bronze in the 200m.
Bowie also won 100m world championship gold in dramatic circumstances in London in 2017 to become the fastest woman in the world before her career came to an abrupt end. Last month, multiple neighbours told the Mail that she she appeared to be 'around seven or eight months pregnant' when she died.
Her agent, Kimberly Holland, has now told CBS News that she died as a result of complications during childbirth having been in labour at the time of her death.
Bowie was eight months pregnant and passed away after complications in childbirth, her agent says (Getty)Holland stated speculation over the cause of Bowie's death have been "very hurtful" and added: "Hopefully, now knowing the truth, there will be many apologies".
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USA Today Sports obtained an autopsy report which ruled Bowie's death was "natural" and said she was estimated to be eight months pregnant when she passed away.
Possible complications she had were respiratory distress and eclampsia, when a person develops seizures or convulsions during pregnancy.
Bowie, the last American woman to win a major 100m sprinting title, last competed in athletics in the long jump at the 2019 World Championships. She did not attempt to qualify for the last Olympic games in Tokyo in 2020.
Tributes poured in for Bowie from the world of athletics following her death (Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images for IAAF)Announcing her death on May 3, her agency, Icon Management, said in a statement: “We’re devastated to share the very sad news that Tori Bowie has passed away. We’ve lost a client, dear friend, daughter and sister. Tori was a champion…a beacon of light that shined so bright! We’re truly heartbroken and our prayers are with the family and friends."
After her passing, the United States Track and Field team tweeted: "USATF is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Tori Bowie, a three-time Olympic medalist and two-time world champion. Her impact on the sport is immeasurable, and she will be greatly missed."
US athletics star Noah Lyles also responded with a tribute, writing: "I can’t believe this. I had just heard word of her going to be with her sister back home and now this. This breaks my heart to hear and I will keep the family in my prayers."
Former on-track rival Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce said: “My heart breaks for the family of Tori Bowie. A great competitor and source of light. Your energy and smile will always be with me. Rest in peace."