American star Grant Fisher, known for his mastery of the grueling 5000m and 10000m, has earned a reputation through medals.
Fresh off a historic double podium in Paris, where Fisher clinched bronze in both the 5000m and 10000m, becoming just the fourth American to ever medal in the former and only the second in half a century, expectations were sky-high.
And 2025 had only cemented his status. In a whirlwind start to the year, Fisher shattered two world records in the indoor 3000m and 5000m within a week and banked a $10,000 prize from the Grand Slam Track (GST) series.
But just as fans geared up to watch him continue his dominance at the third GST stop in Philadelphia (May 30–June 1), an unexpected announcement changed everything.
A Tough Call at the Peak of His Powers
In a candid Instagram Story, Fisher revealed he was pulling out of the Philadelphia Grand Slam due to a hamstring issue.
“Made the decision to pull out of the Philadelphia Grand Slam. I had a hamstring issue come up a few days ago that I hoped would come around, but it just wasn’t ready for a full race effort,” he shared.
After dazzling performances in Kingston and Miramar, including a gutsy 5000m win in Miami where he made a decisive move with 1500 meters to go, Fisher had been on fire.
“Really bad timing, but that’s the way it goes sometimes. Thank you to everyone in my corner! Live to fight another day,” Fisher added.
A Season of Highs, Records, and Relentless Schedules
Grant Fisher’s 2025 campaign has been one of both triumph and toll. Starting the year by claiming the long-distance crown at GST Kingston, he set the tone with world records at the Millrose Games and David Hemery Valentine Invitational.
In just six days, Fisher rewrote history in both the 3000m (7:22.91) and 5000m, a feat no one else in his event group had ever attempted, let alone accomplished.
“Talking about my event group, the 3000m/5000m double over two or three days, no one does that… I just ran a 3000m/5000m double-double over six days,” he reflected in an interview with Athletics Weekly.
That punishing early-season schedule, paired with his medal-winning run in Paris and multiple Grand Slam appearances, eventually caught up. Even as he notched podiums and cashed in on bonuses and sponsorship deals, Fisher had previously hinted at concerns about maintaining such a brutal pace.
What Comes Next for Grant Fisher?
While the setback dims the immediate spotlight on Fisher’s seemingly unstoppable season, it hardly signals an end.
Athletes at this level know injuries are part of the grind, and Fisher’s response has been textbook grit and gratitude. The question now isn’t about his ability to bounce back, it’s how soon he can return to form.
Fans will watch closely as Fisher navigates his recovery and eyes the remaining legs of the GST series.
