Fact Check: Did Julien Alfred Break the World Record at Paris Olympics? Why Did She Ring the Bell After 100M Final

After a heart-pounding semi-final and a result that stunned the world, Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred stood on the brink of history. Amidst the thunderous cheers at the Stade de France, the women’s 100m finalists stepped onto the rain-soaked, now-iconic purple track. The 23-year-old had already bested Sha’Carri Richardson, yet the crowd buzzed with anticipation, hoping the reigning champion could stage a legendary comeback.

The atmosphere crackled with tension as raindrops fell, each one amplifying the stakes. The gun fired—POP!—and Julien Alfred surged forward like a bolt of lightning. The world watched in awe, expecting Richardson to reclaim her crown, but Alfred’s raw speed and unbreakable resolve told a different story.

In a moment destined for the annals of Olympic legend, Julien Alfred crossed the finish line in a blistering 10.72 seconds. She had done the impossible. She had secured the first-ever Olympic medal for her nation. With tears of triumph streaming down her face, Alfred embarked on a victory lap, the crowd’s roar a symphony of adulation for her historic feat.

Her triumph was even more extraordinary as she shattered the national record. On this unforgettable day, Julien Alfred transformed from underdog to legend. Her performance etched in gold not just in record books, but in the hearts of millions. This was more than a victory—it was a testament to the indomitable spirit and the power of dreams.

Julien Alfred set the pace for a thrilling battle at Stade de France. The pre-finals favorite Richardson was no match for the 23-year-old. She couldn’t overtake the 2024 Monaco Diamond League gold medalist in the semi-finals, and she couldn’t do it now either. The American trailed behind Alfred, claiming an Olympic silver with her time of 10.87 seconds. Her compatriot Melissa Jefferson completed the podium with 10.92 seconds of the clock. But we know what you’re thinking. If she didn’t break the world record, why did she ring the bell?

What is the significance of the bell in Stade de France?

The Stade de France was the home of rugby tournaments at the French capital. However, it has now been transformed into the host for everything track and field at the 2024 Paris Olympics. While the entire base was changed to accommodate this requirement, they left one thing behind – the large bell you now see many Olympians ring. According to the stadium’s tradition, winners of every rugby match would ring the iconic bell. However, this tradition has now seeped into the Summer Games. The difference? Only gold medalists get a shot at ringing it.

Even though Julien Alfred had just set a national record, seeing how she is now the proud owner of a shiny Olympic hardware, the Olympian fit the bill. But what is so special about the bell? The infamous bell is part of the refurbishment process of the Notre Dame Cathedral. The manager of the Stade de France, Pierre-André Lacout stated “In a way, Paris 2024 is helping to rebuild Notre-Dame. A part of the Games and the Olympic spirit will remain in Notre-Dame for life.”

Engraved with the emblem of the Paris Olympics, the bell made in Normandy will then be suspended in the cathedral’s tower after the Summer Games conclude. This is one of the many ways the event will contribute to the legacy project. With the bell’s inclusion at the historic cathedral post the games, the City of Lights will constantly be reminded of what Olympic victory sounds like forevermore.