Gabrielle Thomas of the United States sent a resounding message to her rivals in the Olympic women’s 200 meters, comfortably securing the fastest time in the semifinal on Monday. The 27-year-old displayed dominance over the final 50 meters, pulling away from the field with ease and crossing the finish line with a smile, clocking in at 21.86 seconds.
Julien Alfred, who previously claimed Saint Lucia’s first Olympic medal by winning the 100m on Saturday, held off American Sha’Carri Richardson to secure the second-fastest time in the 200m semifinal with a mark of 21.98 seconds.
Favour Ofili of Nigeria, who did not compete in the 100m due to the Nigerian federation’s decision not to enter her for the event, delivered a strong performance, finishing third fastest with a time of 22.05 seconds.
Rounding out the field for Tuesday’s final are Brittany Brown of the U.S., Britain’s Daryll Neita, American Mckenzie Long, Briton Dina Asher-Smith, and Jessika Gbai of the Ivory Coast.
Thomas, who boasts the world’s fastest time this season at 21.78, earned a bronze medal on her Olympic debut three years ago. Notably absent from the event was reigning world champion Shericka Jackson, who withdrew before Sunday’s heats due to an injury.
Thomas’s performance in the semifinals makes her a serious contender for gold in the final. With her impressive speed and experience, she will be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming race.
