PARIS, France — Thea Lafond expressed immense joy and pride after winning the women’s triple jump final at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, marking a historic moment for Dominica. The 30-year-old athlete secured the island nation’s first-ever Olympic medal, and it was a golden achievement.
“It means everything,” Lafond declared during a post-event press conference. “Everything I do in this sport is to make my country look good, and tonight they look amazing, superb, unbelievable, cosmic. I am just grateful, honored, proud, and I hope they are too.”
Lafond clinched the gold with a stunning National Record jump of 15.02 meters, edging out Jamaica’s Shanieka Ricketts, who achieved a season-best 14.87 meters. The United States’ Jasmine Moore also recorded a season-best 14.67 meters, securing the bronze.
With the absence of World Record holder Yulimar Rojas of Colombia, the competition was wide open. However, Lafond admitted that she wasn’t overly confident, especially after the initial heats.
“Honestly, I didn’t feel super confident, especially after yesterday (Friday), but I kept thinking that it only takes one good jump. Trust yourself, and you don’t need to feel perfect to do something extraordinary,” Lafond explained.
She credited her husband and coach, Aaron Gadson, for helping her stay focused and execute her jumps, even when she didn’t feel at her best.
