Canadian world decathlon champion Pierce LePage will miss the Paris Olympics due to a herniated disk in his back that requires surgery. Despite his efforts to push through the injury, LePage decided against competing to avoid risking further damage. He announced the news in a heartfelt video on Instagram, expressing disappointment for himself and his supporters, including his family, who were set to attend their first Olympics. LePage's injury saga included a recent mishap where he injured his hand and shoulders during pole vault training. He aims to defend his world title next year in Tokyo, having previously achieved notable successes, including winning gold at the 2023 World Athletics Championships. Fellow Canadian Damian Warner, the 2021 Olympic gold medalist, remains a favorite for the decathlon in Paris.