The USA women’s 4x100m relay team, anchored by the sensational Sha’Carri Richardson, captured gold in a thrilling final at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The American quartet finished with a time of 41.78 seconds, narrowly defeating Great Britain and Germany.
Final Standings – Women’s 4x100m Relay, Paris 2024
- USA – 41.78 seconds
- Great Britain – 41.85 seconds
- Germany – 41.97 seconds
The USA team, composed of Melissa Jefferson, Twanisha Terry, Gabrielle Thomas, and Sha’Carri Richardson, showcased remarkable coordination and speed. Despite facing stiff competition, the Americans lived up to their pre-race favorites status, having entered the Games as reigning world champions.
Race Highlights:
- First Leg: Melissa Jefferson started strong for the USA, setting a solid foundation.
- Second Leg: Twanisha Terry maintained the team’s momentum, smoothly passing the baton to Gabrielle Thomas.
- Third Leg: Gabrielle Thomas, the Paris 2024 200m champion, ran a blistering third leg, ensuring the team remained in a strong position.
- Anchor Leg: Sha’Carri Richardson, the 100m silver medallist, took the baton from Thomas and delivered an electrifying final leg, using her top-end speed to clinch the gold for the USA.
Comments from the USA Team:
- Sha’Carri Richardson: “It was a phenomenal feeling for all of us. I just remember trusting my third leg, trusting Gabby (Thomas) and knowing that she’s going to put this thing in my hand no matter what, and to leave my best on the track. I was very comfortable with these ladies.”
- Gabrielle Thomas: “Obviously, passing the baton to Sha’Carri is very special, she is so fast. I felt very proud and very grateful. We got the gold!”
Silver and Bronze Medalists:
- Great Britain: The British team, consisting of Dina Asher-Smith, Imani Lansiquot, Amy Hunt, and Daryll Neita, finished closely behind the USA in 41.85 seconds. Their excellent performance highlighted their strong relay capabilities.
- Germany: The German team, made up of Alexandra Burghardt, Lisa Mayer, Gina Lueckenkemper, and Rebekka Haase, secured bronze with a time of 41.97 seconds. They delivered a solid performance, showing their competitive edge.
The USA’s victory in the women’s 4x100m relay added another gold to their athletics tally at Paris 2024, demonstrating their dominance and depth in sprinting events. The thrilling race at Stade de France will be remembered as a highlight of these Olympic Games.