Meyers claimed to have been told she did not need a trusted PCA, and that one person could fulfil the role for the whole US Paralympic swimming team.

"I've had to make the gut-wrenching decision to withdraw from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics," Meyers wrote in a statement.

"I'm angry, I'm disappointed, but most of all, I'm sad to not be representing my country."

Meyers was one of 34 swimmers named to the US Paralympic team. 

Nine others also have visual impairments.

Meyers wrote that her mother has served as her PCA at every one of her international competitions since 2017, but due to COVID-19 restrictions the USOPC said she could not accompany Meyers to Tokyo and instead a different PCA would be available to the athlete.

"With COVID, there are new safety measures and limits of non-essential staff in place, rightfully so, but a trusted PCA is essential for me to compete.

"So, in 2021, why as a disabled person am I still fighting for my rights?

"I'm speaking up for future generations of Paralympic athletes in hope that they never have to experience the pain I've been through.

"Enough is enough."

insidethegames has contacted USOPC for comment.

Meyers is a three-time Paralympic gold medallist, wining all three at Rio 2016 as well as a silver.

Meyers won women's S13 100 metres butterfly and 400m freestyle titles, plus a gold medal in the 200m individual medley.

She also won a silver and a bronze medal at London 2012.

The 26-year-old has Usher syndrome and has been deaf since she was born, and is also losing her vision due to retinitis pigmentosa.

The Tokyo 2020 Paralympics are due to be held from August 24 to September 5.