(Photo by Andy Astfalck/BSR Agency/Getty Images)
Black women are outchea taking over the 2024 Paris Olympics!
Congratulations are in order for Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred! The sprinter won the women’s 100-meter dash in 10.72 seconds at State de France at the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking the first medal of any kind for her home country.
Julien Alfred narrowly outpaced Sha’Carri Richardson, finishing in 10.72 seconds. Sha’Carri, representing Team USA, came in second with a time of 10.87 seconds, earning her a silver medal. Melissa Jefferson, also of Team USA, secured the bronze medal with a time of 10.92 seconds.
After winning her gold medal, Julien Alfred spoke exclusively with AP News. The St. Lucian sprinter was overjoyed with emotions and burst into tears moments later.
“It means a lot to me. It means a lot to my coach. It means a lot to my country. I’m sure they’re celebrating right now,” Julien said.
Julien Alfred’s victory surprised many, as NBC News notes, because Sha’Carri Richardson had demonstrated exceptional speed and consistency throughout the 2023 season.
Despite not winning gold in the individual event, Sha’Carri still has an opportunity to secure a gold medal in the 4 x 100 relay on August 9, according to the New York Times.
Commenters under The Shade Room’s Instagram report expressed extreme happiness for Julien and her competitors. Many felt excited to see her bring home the gold medal for St. Lucia.
Instagram user @lijitimate wrote, “Proud of Julien!! Product of St. Lucia. Went to high school and competed in Jamaica! A massive win for her small but resilient island. Know her name. 🥇”
Instagram user @howijourney wrote, “Our 1st Olympic medal and it’s GOLD 🏅”
While Instagram user @get_moefit wrote, “Proud of Julian she worked damn hard. All the ladies did and they all will only get better! 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾”
Then Instagram user @aprnbeauty wrote, “Shacarri overcame so much adversity!! And still made it to the Olympics and is still number 2 fastest in the world in the 100m that’s commendable.”
Another Instagram user @mia_raye3 wrote, “The fact she came in second while not being able to warm up! Good for her.”
Finally Instagram user @beyoncexsavage_ wrote, “Either way brown girls are taking the 2024 Olympics Congratulations to them all 🫶🏾”
