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Thomas came from behind to win the 200m London Diamond League classic to put herself in a good position for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Fast-rising American sprint sensation Gabby Thomas has shared her confidence and excitement ahead of the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games, following her impressive late surge to victory in the 200 meters at the London Diamond League on Saturday.
Thomas, set to represent the USA in the 200m in Paris, managed to keep British favorites Dina Asher-Smith and Daryll Neita at bay.
Though she appeared poised for a second-place finish, she found an extra burst of speed in the final 20 meters, securing the win with a time of 21.82 seconds. Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred finished second with a national and personal record of 21.86 seconds. Asher-Smith settled for third at 22.07, while Neita finished fourth at 22.20.
Thomas's recent performance is part of her meticulous preparation for the Olympics, where she is expected to compete in the 200m event. Reflecting on her London victory, she explained her mindset and strategy:
“For me, it is just figuring out how to win. It is whoever wants it more. I ran really gritty and that is what happened today,” Thomas said.
“I am glad I did this. I definitely fine-tuned some things. Running in a headband is really difficult for me just being a tall, lean runner, so I had to really make up for it on the backstretch.”
The electric atmosphere at the event also played a significant role in her performance. “It was great to get out here with such an electric field, stadium, and all the fans,” she added. “I am so excited. Coming into the Olympics healthy, happy, and in a great city. It will be so much fun.”
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Thomas expressed how the race in London boosted her confidence as she heads to Paris. “I feel really good. It's made me feel confident going into the Paris Games after that one. All things considered, hopping off the plane and coming into this stadium with all these people was a really good race for me.”
Praising the London Diamond League event, she remarked, “This crowd is incredible, it's got to be my favorite Diamond League - it's just so fun. The crowd is incredible, the stadium is incredible, and it's so well run. I'm so happy to be here, this was a great experience.”
Thomas has been a standout in the 200 meters this year, running a blistering 21.78 seconds at the USATF trials, the fastest time in the field. Her recent victory further cements her status as a top contender for the gold medal in Paris.
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Adding to her growing profile, Thomas has become a prominent figure through the new six-part Netflix track and field series, "Sprint." The series not only showcases her successes on the track but also delves into the intensity and rivalries off it.
With Shericka Jackson struggling for form in 2024, Thomas has seized the opportunity to position herself as the leading candidate for Olympic gold. Her preparation and mental fortitude will be crucial as she aims to peak at the right moment for the Olympic final on August 6.
Gabby Thomas's blend of physical prowess and psychological readiness makes her a formidable contender at the Paris 2024 Olympics, and her journey continues to inspire and captivate fans around the world.
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