St Lucian sprint star clocks 10.76 as Julien Alfred Diamond League victory electrifies Zurich
ZURICH — Julien Alfred Diamond League victory headlined the women’s 100 meters in Zurich, with the Olympic champion timing 10.76 seconds at the Letzigrund Stadium, Reuters reported.
The 24-year-old sprinter, who delivered St Lucia’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in Paris last year, produced a blistering start from lane four and maintained her speed to secure another major career milestone. Her triumph builds on her 2024 Diamond League championship performance, where she also established herself among the world’s elite sprinters.
The race opened with drama after Ivorian veteran Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith was disqualified for a false start. On the restart, Alfred reacted cleanly out of the blocks, holding her form to the finish line for a decisive win.
Jamaica’s Tia Clayton took second in 10.84 seconds, while Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith placed third in 10.94, rounding out a high-caliber podium. Earlier this season, American sprinter Melissa Jefferson made headlines with her own Diamond League victory, underscoring the depth of competition Alfred continues to face on the international stage.
Alfred focused on execution after return from five-week break
Alfred said her performance was more about refining execution than chasing a fast time. “I am surpassing the questions about my injuries,” she told reporters. “I feel like there is more work to be done. It is my first race back in five weeks, so it is like one step forward to me. I am not thinking about the time. It was about putting up the first and the second part.”
The Saint Lucian sprinter noted the importance of her team’s support as she balances racing, recovery, and media attention. “Now, I am working on little things. I have a great team, and they help me with things like media attention and pressure. I feel like I want to add another gold in my collection. The season has been long, but my most favourite meet, it is between London and Monaco.”
A season of growth and resilience
Reflecting on her progression this year, Alfred pointed to both physical improvements and mental readiness. “When I compare myself now and at the beginning of the season, I am much fitter than before, and also mentally, I am on the right place where I want to be,” she said.
Her Diamond League victory in Zurich underscores the steady form she has maintained since her historic Olympic triumph in Paris and marks another highlight in a season defined by consistency and resilience.
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