Rio Olympics: Missy Franklin cut from 4×200 relay team

United States Olympics swimmer Missy Franklin was left off the women’s 4×200-meter relay team in Wednesday night’s action.

On Wednesday night, it was announced that United States Olympics swimmer Missy Franklin would not be a part of the women’s 4×200-meter relay team. Franklin, who had been struggling in her 2016 Summer Games events, would sit out the event.

Instead, NBC reported that a team of Allison Schmitt, Leah Smith, Maya DiRado and Katie Ledecky would compete in the medal event. Franklin, who competed in the preliminary heats, will still be eligible to receive a medal for a United States victory.

The fact she was left off the team of four women reflects upon her struggles at the current edition of the Summer Games. Back at the London 2012 Olympics, Franklin qualified for a total of seven events. Up until now in Rio, she has qualified for just three.

Franklin finished last in Monday’s 200-meter freestyle semifinal heat and ultimately failed to qualify for the event. She was expected to compete in several more events including tonight’s medal competition.

While Franklin was a previous star for the United States in women’s swimming, a newer star has emerged in Katie Ledecky. Heading into Wednesday’s event, Ledecky had already racked up two gold medals and one silver. Franklin has continued to be supportive for her teammates despite her own disappointment.

As Franklin has fallen from grace a bit, she’s still providing her strong backing for the rest of her team. She’ll be among the biggest supporters watching as her teammates go for the gold again in Wednesday’s 4-x200-meter event.