Australian Sprinter Jemma Stapleton Dead at 25 After 'Accident' on Vacation
Australian sprinterJemma Stapleton has died after an undisclosed "accident" on a family vacation. She was 25.
"It is with great sadness that our beautiful friends the Stapleton family are facing the unmeasurable grief while on a family holiday with the passing of their beautiful daughter, sister and partner Jemma," read a GoFundMe page created on Wednesday, June 10. "Jemma tragically lost her life in an accident while overseas with her family, any and all support to help the Stapleton family to bring her home is kindly appreciated!"
The fundraiser has earned more than $103,000 donations at the time of publication.
In an update on Friday, June 12, the page's organizer wrote, "On behalf of Stapleton family, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming generosity and love that has poured in from so many of you. Jemma would have been absolutely overwhelmed to see her community come together in this way - it is a true reflection of the beautiful person she was. The family are asking for privacy during this incredibly difficult time as they grieve and support one another. Contributions to this page are now closed. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts."
According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), Stapleton was traveling with her family in Koh Samui, Thailand, when she died. A cause of death has not yet been revealed.
The athlete celebrated her birthday just two weeks before her death.
In a video tribute shared by the ABC, Jemma's brother Joel Stapleton called her his "best friend."
"I'm so lucky to have had her guiding me through my first 21 years," he added. "She was always there for me and whenever I needed help she was always there. For those that knew her, you know how lucky you were to have her in your life. Her smile was so bright that wherever she went you knew she was there. I'm so grateful that I can call her my sister."
Jemma's partner, Tyler Gray, also shared a tribute via Instagram.
"I can't put into words the hurt I am feeling," he wrote. "You are the single greatest thing to happen to me and I am so grateful for the love we shared. I love you with all my heart."
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it is providing consular assistance to the family, according to the ABC.
Jemma finished third in the women's final at the 2025 Stawell Gift, Australia's oldest and richest short-distance footrace.
"Her outstanding performance to finish third in the 2025 Powercor Women's Gift was a testament to her talent, dedication and passion for the sport of professional running," the organization said in a statement. "Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Jemma's family, friends, training partners, pro running friends, and all those who knew and loved her."
Copyright 2026 Us Weekly. All rights reserved
This story was originally published June 12, 2026 at 5:44 PM.