Germany's Yemisi Ogunleye claimed gold in the women's shot put final at the Paris Olympics on Friday with a decisive final throw of 20.00 meters. This effort edged out New Zealand's Maddison-Lee Wesche, who had led with a personal best of 19.86 meters on her fifth attempt, marking Germany's first gold in the event since 1996.
Ogunleye, proudly draped in the German flag, celebrated her victory with a lap around the Stade de France and rang the traditional victory bell.
"In that moment, I was just saying a prayer," Reuters quoted Ogunleye after her win. "It was the moment when I knew that if I have the faith, I am capable of doing more than I can think or ask for. I just took all the energy I had left and put it out there."
The competition was intense, with Wesche nearly securing gold after her remarkable penultimate throw. However, Ogunleye's final throw, encouraged by the supportive crowd, ensured her top spot on the podium. Wesche, unable to surpass her own mark with her last throw, won the silver medal, and China's Song Jiayuan took bronze with a throw of 19.32 meters.
The event saw a significant upset with the surprise elimination of double world champion and favorite Chase Jackson during the heats. Despite this, Ogunleye contended with a strong field, which included Tokyo champion Gong Lijiao, who finished fifth, and Canada's Sarah Mitton, the world silver medallist, who had a disappointing performance and finished last.
As the rain ceased and clear skies emerged, Ogunleye initially took the lead with a throw of 19.55 meters on her second attempt. Wesche quickly countered with 19.58 meters, and improved to 19.86 meters, putting pressure on Ogunleye. With one throw remaining, Ogunleye motivated the crowd with a slow clap before launching her gold-medal-winning shot.
Ogunleye's victory not only secured her place in Olympic history but also added to her impressive list of achievements, which includes a world indoor silver title. The dramatic conclusion to the event left the spectators at the Stade de France in awe, celebrating a moment of pure athletic excellence.
