Julien Alfred has revealed what was on her mind as she prepared for the women’s 100m Olympic final against favourite Sha’Carri Richardson.
Julien Alfred discusses her preparation for the Olympic 100m final, facing Sha’Carri Richardson and other strong sprinters.
Alfred claimed that not being the favorite relieved the burden on her because everyone’s attention was on Richardson, allowing her to focus on her own race.
She also had the opportunity to make history for Saint Lucia, and she knew her people were watching, which motivated her to put in the effort that eventually paid off with a victory.
“I knew I had a good opportunity of making my country renowned; the entire world would know my name, and there was no pressure. Coming in as an underdog, few people predicted I would win.
“I felt like there was no pressure from the outside, and I knew I had a great chance of creating history for my country, and you know, my people, Saint Lucia, were watching me, and they were expecting a medal,” she told Sky News at the time.
Meanwhile, Alfred discussed her relationship with her track opponents, notably reigning world 100m champion Sha’Carri Richardson.
The current 100m Olympic champion stated that she has no concerns with Sha’Carri Richardson, stating that the American sprinter has always been friendly to her and there is no need to have a disagreement with her.
Julien Alfred shared that after racing, everything returns to normal and that her competitors are among the nicest individuals she’s met.
The Olympic 200m silver medalist and her competitors follow each other on Instagram, and she comments on their images as they do on hers.
“Whenever I see my competition, I say hello to them. For example, on Instagram, when someone posts a picture, I answer to them, and vice versa, and we’ll have a little talk in our DMs.
“I believe that what people perceive to be adversaries on the track can also be friendly. Julien Alfred told Sky News that he had no difficulties with Sha’Carri.
Julien Alfred and Sha’Carri Richardson have been highly competitive in the 100m this season, demonstrating a strong drive to perform in crucial moments. Richardson was a favourite to win the 100m at the Paris Olympics, but Julien Alfred, who entered the event as an underdog, upset the 24-year-old.
Sha’Carri Richardson’s retribution at the Diamond League Meeting in Zurich was short-lived as Julien Alfred won the final in Brussels.
Sha’Carri Richardson will look to make a strong comeback next season, defending her 100m title at the World Championships in Tokyo, Japan. Julien Alfred, for her part, wishes to continue writing history for Saint Lucia, and next year will provide her with another opportunity to make a name for herself on the international scene.