Julien Alfred Triumphs Over Sha'Carri Richardson in 100-Meter Olympic Clash

Saint Lucia's Julien Alfred clinched her first Olympic gold in the women's 100-meter race by clocking 10.72 seconds, overcoming Sha'Carri Richardson under rainy conditions. Richardson's training partner, Melissa Jefferson, secured third place. Despite her previous obstacles, Richardson couldn't catch Alfred, who dominated the race.

Julien Alfred of Saint Lucia captured her island nation's first Olympic gold in the women's 100-meter race with a stunning time of 10.72 seconds, decisively defeating Sha'Carri Richardson in adverse weather conditions.

Racing next to Richardson under heavy rain at the Stade de France, Alfred bolted from the start and maintained her lead, finishing .15 seconds ahead of Richardson—approximately three body lengths—on Saturday.

Richardson's compatriot and training partner, Melissa Jefferson, came in third with a time of 10.92 seconds. Throughout the week, it seemed the path was clearing for Richardson, who missed the previous Olympics due to a marijuana-related ban, especially after Jamaican contender Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce withdrew in the semifinal.

Despite the setback, Alfred, who already had broken the 10.8-second barrier earlier this year, dominated the race. In a semifinal preview with Richardson, Alfred had won by .05 seconds and extended that lead in the final. One of the most anticipated Olympic events proved to be a one-sided affair, with Alfred surging ahead early and staying ahead, leaving Richardson to contend with Jefferson for second place.

Other notable performances included American Ryan Crouser's third-consecutive gold in the shot put and a silver in the 4x400 mixed relay. Jasmine Moore claimed bronze in the triple jump, while Noah Lyles advanced to the men's 100-meter semifinals.

(With inputs from agencies.)