Gabby Thomas of the United States made a stunning comeback at the Olympic Games in Saint-Denis, France, by winning the gold medal in the women’s 200 meter final. Three years after earning a bronze medal at the Tokyo Summer Games, Thomas sprinted to victory on Tuesday night in front of an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 80,000 spectators at Stade de France.
After crossing the finish line, an overjoyed Thomas expressed her disbelief and gratitude for achieving her dream of winning an Olympic gold medal. She celebrated by embracing the moment with the American flag. “I’m really in disbelief because having an Olympic gold medal is something in my wildest dreams. But at the same time I know how hard I’ve fought for it,” Thomas shared. She reflected on the electrifying atmosphere of the stadium, stating that it made her victory even more special.
Julien Alfred from St. Lucia, who recently secured a gold medal in the 100-meter final, earned the silver medal in the 200 meters. This marks only the second medal for her nation, and Alfred hopes her success will encourage greater investment in athletics on her island. “I feel good,” she said. “This means a lot. First Olympics, to go back with gold and silver, I can’t ask for more than that.”
Brittany Brown, a 29-year-old American athlete, achieved a bronze medal in the event. She expressed her excitement about competing alongside such talented women, saying, “It feels amazing to be around these women, to be a part of this class of women. It’s something you aspire to be when you grow up.”