In a surprising turn of events, Julien Alfred of Saint Lucia won the women’s 100 meters final with a national record time of 10.72 seconds, beating USA’s Sha’Carri Richardson into silver. Alfred’s victory, which came amid Parisian rain at the Stade de France, marked Saint Lucia’s first Olympic medal. The 23-year-old sprinter, who had never previously finished on the podium at a major outdoor championship, expressed her joy, saying, “It feels amazing… it still hasn’t sunk in.”
Simone Biles Conquers Tokyo Demons with Gold Vault
US gymnastics icon Simone Biles captured her third Olympic gold medal in Paris, performing a difficult vault with unparalleled precision. This win came after her struggles in Tokyo, where she faced a mental block known as the “twisties.” Biles, who acknowledged the temptation of competing in Los Angeles 2028, stated, “I kind of nailed that one,” highlighting her successful return to form.
Historic Wins for Gymnasts and Swimmers
Carlos Yulo of the Philippines won his country’s second-ever Olympic gold in men’s floor exercise, while Ireland’s Rhys McClenaghan secured its first-ever Olympic gymnastics medal with gold on the pommel horse. In the pool, US swimmer Katie Ledecky claimed her fourth consecutive 800m freestyle title, tying with Soviet-era gymnast Larisa Latynina for the most Olympic golds by a woman in any sport. Rising star Summer McIntosh also shone, winning gold in the 200m individual medley.
Controversy in Boxing and Tennis Achievements
In boxing, Algerian Imane Khelif advanced to at least a bronze medal despite a controversial disqualification last year by the International Boxing Association. Khelif’s victory sparked debate and calls from IOC President Thomas Bach to end the dispute over gender eligibility. Meanwhile, Zheng Qinwen of China made history as the first Chinese player to win Olympic tennis singles gold, defeating Croatia’s Donna Vekic.
Athletics and Tennis Highlights
On the athletics track, Noah Lyles of the US showed promise in the men’s 100m, recovering from a slow start to advance from his heat. Ryan Crouser won a third consecutive gold in the men’s shot put. In tennis, Zheng Qinwen became the first Chinese player to win Olympic singles gold, securing her victory over Donna Vekic. With 29 golds up for grabs on Saturday, the medal race continues, with China leading the table.