Thompson taken aback by 100m triumph

"When I crossed the line and glanced across to see I was clear I didn't quite know how to celebrate," said Elaine Thompson. "There is a big screen back home in my community in Jamaica. I can't imagine what is happening there right now."

Published : Aug 14, 2016 16:12 IST

Elaine Thompson after claiming victory in the women's 100m final in Rio
Elaine Thompson after claiming victory in the women's 100m final in Rio
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Elaine Thompson after claiming victory in the women's 100m final in Rio

Elaine Thompson did not know how to react after >storming to victory in the women's 100 metre final at Rio 2016 on Saturday.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce was seeking a third successive Olympic title over the most glamorous sprint distance, but had to settle for third as Thompson won comfortably in a time of 10.71 seconds, a hundredth outside her world-leading time in 2016.

Tori Bowie of the United States split the two Jamaicans on the podium, but could not get close to Thompson, who appeared unstoppable after opening up an early lead.

"When I crossed the line and glanced across to see I was clear I didn't quite know how to celebrate," said the new Olympic champion.

"There is a big screen back home in my community in Jamaica. I can't imagine what is happening there right now."

Fraser-Pryce remained upbeat after taking bronze, stating: "I would definitely say that this is my best championship ever, because I knew how hard I worked, I knew the pain and the sacrifices and the tears. I am really happy that I persevered.

The two-time Olympic champion also hailed compatriot Thompson.

"One other thing I am happy about is that Elaine got the opportunity to cross the line and get a gold medal," Fraser-Pryce added.

"I am really happy for her. I've seen her work hard and it was her time.

"In 2008 it was my time, 2016 it is her time. I am happy that Jamaica gets to keep the gold medal."

Silver medallist Bowie declared herself "extremely excited", before turning her attentions to the 200m.

The American said: "It makes me a little bit more motivated. I came here hungry, I came here determined to leave with a gold medal and I didn't do that today but this just makes me a little bit more motivated for Monday [when the 200m heats take place]." 

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