A recently leaked photograph of Alberto Juantorena, the Cuban Olympic champion known for his dual gold victories, starkly illustrates the severe physical decline of the 74-year-old sports icon, who hasn't been seen in an official capacity for nearly two years. The exclusive image, obtained by CubaNet, depicts the former athlete looking notably thin and seated in a wheelchair, reportedly taken at his residence just days ago.
According to the independent media outlet, a source close to Juantorena, one of Cuba's most revered sports figures, mentioned, "He remains unchanged." Earlier this year in April, CubaNet had released another photo revealing Juantorena's fragile condition, which has apparently worsened over the past months.
In the previous image, Juantorena appeared alongside Roberto Vargas Lee, the director of the Cuban Wushu School, also seated in a wheelchair. At that time, sources connected to the Cuban athletic community informed the media that "Olympic champion Alberto Juantorena has not regained his health, continues to rely on a wheelchair even inside his home, and still experiences speech difficulties."
A former official, choosing to remain anonymous, who recently visited Juantorena, summarized his condition as "still complicated." Despite the lack of updates from official sources regarding Juantorena's health status or diagnosis, CubaNet reported in November 2023 that his condition had further deteriorated. Specifically, it was revealed that he was wheelchair-bound and had speaking difficulties.
Back in August 2022, Juantorena was in critical condition at the Pedro Kourí Institute of Tropical Medicine in Havana, battling dengue fever and post-COVID-19 syndrome. CubaNet notes that his last public appearance was in March 2023 during a meeting with IOC President Thomas Bach at the Pan American Stadium in Havana, where he seemed to be in relatively good health.
In August of the previous year, Juantorena was honored as an Honorary Member of the World Athletics Council and was awarded the Gold Order of Merit, the highest accolade from the global governing body of athletics. The Montreal '76 double Olympic champion has served as the president of the Cuban Federation and held a vice-presidential role at INDER for nearly three decades. He was also part of the World Athletics Council (formerly IAAF) since 1987, serving as vice president from 2015 to 2019.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alberto Juantorena's Health
What is the current health condition of Alberto Juantorena?
Alberto Juantorena's health has significantly declined, as evidenced by his need for a wheelchair and difficulties with speech.
When was Alberto Juantorena's last public appearance?
His last public appearance was in March 2023 during a meeting with the IOC President in Havana.
Has there been any official update on Juantorena's health?
There have been no recent official updates regarding his health status or diagnosis.