The Paris 2024 Olympics witnessed two remarkable achievements in track and field and swimming on August 3rd. In a stunning upset, Julien Alfred of Saint Lucia clinched gold in the women’s 100-meter sprint, edging out American favorite Sha’Carri Richardson. Alfred’s winning time of 10.72 seconds not only secured her country’s first-ever Olympic medal but also marked the largest margin of victory in the women’s Olympic 100 since 2008.Richardson, making her Olympic debut after missing the Tokyo Games due to a positive marijuana test, claimed silver with a time of 10.87 seconds. The bronze went to American Melissa Jefferson, who finished in 10.92 seconds. Alfred’s victory was particularly poignant as she dedicated it to her late father, who passed away in 2013.In the pool, American swimming sensation Katie Ledecky continued her reign in the 800-meter freestyle, securing her fourth consecutive gold medal in the event. With a time of 8 minutes and 11.04 seconds, Ledecky held off Australia’s Ariarne Titmus, while American Paige Madden took bronze.This victory marked Ledecky’s ninth Olympic gold medal, tying her with Soviet gymnast Larisa Latynina for the most gold medals won by a female Olympian. At 27 years old, Ledecky has now amassed a total of 14 Olympic medals, placing her among the all-time greats in Olympic history.’I don’t feel like I’m near the end of my career,’ Ledecky stated, hinting at her plans to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Her consistent excellence and longevity in the sport continue to inspire athletes and fans alike.
Key points
- Julien Alfred of Saint Lucia won gold in the women’s 100-meter sprint, securing her country’s first Olympic medal.
- Sha’Carri Richardson claimed silver in her Olympic debut, completing her comeback story.
- Katie Ledecky won her fourth consecutive gold in the 800-meter freestyle, tying the record for most gold medals by a female Olympian.
- Ledecky expressed interest in continuing her career through the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
