In a stunning upset at the Paris Olympics, Julien Alfred of Saint Lucia clinched gold in the women’s 100-meter dash, marking her country’s first-ever Olympic medal. The 23-year-old sprinter crossed the finish line in 10.72 seconds, edging out American favorite Sha’Carri Richardson, who claimed silver with a time of 10.87 seconds. Melissa Jefferson of the United States secured bronze, finishing in 10.92 seconds.Alfred’s victory came as a surprise to many, as Richardson was heavily favored to win following her dominant performances throughout the year. However, Richardson’s slow start in both the semifinals and finals allowed Alfred to take the lead and maintain it to the finish. ‘It was a great day,’ Alfred said, celebrating her historic win. ‘I’m just happy to have made history for my country’.The race was not without drama, as Jamaican sprinting legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce unexpectedly withdrew from the competition just before the semifinals. The reason for her withdrawal remains unclear, with reports suggesting it may have been related to transportation or security issues. Fraser-Pryce, a three-time Olympic champion and eight-time Olympic medalist, was expected to be a strong contender in what was likely her final Olympic appearance.For Richardson, the silver medal represents a significant achievement following her suspension from the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 due to a positive marijuana test. Despite the disappointment of not winning gold, Richardson’s performance marks a triumphant return to the Olympic stage. ‘I hate to lose,’ Richardson said, adding that she will have to wait four years to try for gold at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.Alfred’s journey to Olympic gold began at a young age, and she persevered through personal tragedy, returning to the sport after quitting at age 12 following her father’s death. Her victory has sparked celebrations in Saint Lucia and marks a historic moment for the small Caribbean nation.
Key points
- Julien Alfred of Saint Lucia won gold in the women’s 100m at the Paris Olympics with a time of 10.
- Sha’Carri Richardson of the USA took silver (10.
- This is Saint Lucia’s first-ever Olympic medal.
- Jamaican star Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce unexpectedly withdrew before the semifinals.
72 seconds.
87s) and Melissa Jefferson of the USA won bronze (10.
92s).
Contradictions👾There are conflicting reports about the exact reason for Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s withdrawal, with some sources citing transportation or security issues, while others provide no specific reason.
