Julien Alfred stuns World Champion Sha’Carri Richardson to claim Gold in 100m at Paris 2024 Olympics

Saint Lucian sprinter Julien Alfred has made history by securing the gold medal in the Women’s 100m at the Paris 2024 Olympics, defeating world champion Sha’Carri Richardson in a surprising turn of events.

Alfred Triumphs with Record Time

Julien Alfred, who had already made headlines by winning her semi-final heat, showcased her exceptional speed and skill in the final. She clocked an impressive 10.72 seconds to clinch the gold medal. Alfred’s victory is a significant milestone in her career, marking her first Olympic gold.

Richardson Falls Short

Sha’Carri Richardson, the reigning World Champion, entered the Olympics with high expectations and was considered the favourite for the 100m gold. However, despite her strong performance throughout the competition, Richardson was unable to secure the top spot. She finished the final in second place with a time of 10.87 seconds.

Richardson’s hopes were buoyed by her semi-final performance, where she finished in the top position. However, Alfred’s remarkable run in the final proved too much for the American sprinter.

Unexpected Withdrawals and Shocks

The 100m event was further shaken by the unexpected withdrawal of Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who was aiming for her fifth consecutive Olympic title. Her absence left many predicting a clear path for Richardson, but Alfred’s stunning performance turned the race into a memorable upset.

Looking Ahead

Richardson’s second-place finish was a disappointment for the American sprinter, who was aiming to add Olympic gold to her World Championship title. She will now focus on bouncing back from this setback and preparing for future competitions to maintain her standing as a leading athlete in the sport.