American sprinter Gabby Thomas triumphed in the women’s Olympic 200m event in Paris on Tuesday, securing the first major title of her career with a remarkable performance. Thomas clocked 21.83 seconds to claim gold, defeating St. Lucia’s Julien Alfred, the new 100m champion, who finished in 22.08 seconds. Brittany Brown, Thomas’ teammate, took bronze with a time of 22.20 seconds.
At 27 years old, Thomas adds this gold medal to her previous bronze from the Tokyo Games three years ago. She becomes the first American woman to win an Olympic short sprint title since her childhood idol, Allyson Felix, won the 200m at the 2012 London Games.
Nigeria’s Favour Ofili finished sixth in the race, having reached the final despite administrative issues that had previously led to her omission from the 100m race.
Julien Alfred of St. Lucia, who had aimed for an Olympic sprint double following her victory in the 100m on Saturday, was outpaced by Thomas. Known as the fastest woman in the world this year over the 200m distance, Thomas seized her moment of glory.
The Harvard-educated Thomas burst out of the blocks, ran a superb bend, and established a substantial lead heading into the home straight. Her strength and finishing power remained unchallenged as she crossed the finish line to claim her well-earned gold medal.
By Ebubedike Ochu
