by Deji Ogeyingbo
This is Deji Ogeyingbo’s piece on American superstar Gabby Thomas, who is much more than an Olympic gold medalist (200m, 4x100m, 4x400m); she is a role model.
Gabby Thomas won many hearts this year.
In a season filled with incredible performances and groundbreaking achievements, Gabby Thomas was undoubtedly the stand-out 200m runner of 2024. Her performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics was nothing short of historic, where she claimed three Olympic gold medals, further solidifying her status as one of the sport’s biggest stars.
Herculis EBS
July 21, 2023, Monaco, photo by Kevin Morris
What makes Thomas’ year even more remarkable is how she dominated the 200m—a race that has been highly competitive over recent years. Heading into Paris, she was seen as a favorite and did not disappoint. In the final, she stamped her authority, winning the elusive 200m Olympic gold medal by defeating Julian Alfred in 21.83. Thomas’ mastery of the distance was on full display throughout 2024, as she consistently ran fast times and remained unbeatable in the 200m, establishing herself as the top sprinter in the world over that distance.
However, Thomas’ impact extends far beyond her accomplishments on the track. A Harvard graduate with a master’s degree in public health, she has continually demonstrated her dedication to making a difference off the field. Thomas serves as a program director at the Volunteer Healthcare Clinic, highlighting her commitment to giving back to her community. Her success as a professional athlete and her passion for healthcare and public service make her an inspiring role model for the next generation. Young athletes can look up to Thomas for her speed and athleticism and her drive to make an impact in multiple areas of her life.
Beyond her individual achievements, Thomas’ contributions to the sport reached new heights after the Paris Olympics. She co-organized the Athlos NYC meet alongside venture capitalist Alexis Ohanian, creating an event exclusively for women, blending entertainment with world-class track performances. The meet was a celebration of female athletes, and Thomas’ involvement on and off the track speaks to her desire to elevate women’s sports and provide a platform for others to shine.
Thomas stands as an example of how to excel on and off the track. Her success and influence have the potential to inspire countless young athletes to pursue their dreams, whether in sports, education, or public service. Maybe it won’t catch the eye of many, but in this era of women empowerment reaching new heights, the Georgia Native has set a precedent for other young sprinters to follow.
