Gabby Thomas, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, has proven time and again that she’s more than just a track star. At 28, Thomas made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics, winning gold in the 200m, 4x100m relay, and 4x400m relay. However, her impact goes far beyond athletics. From excelling academically to fighting racism, Thomas is a true role model.
Here are five reasons why she continues to inspire millions:
1. A Harvard Graduate with a Neuroscience Degree
Thomas isn’t just an exceptional athlete—she’s also a Harvard graduate. In 2019, she earned a degree in neuroscience, minoring in global health and health policy. Despite the challenging demands of Ivy League academics, she also shattered records on the track. However, some online trolls recently questioned her degree due to her race, to which she replied with a witty yet strong retort: “You’re probably right, darn my Harvard degree.”
Later, Thomas addressed the racism she faced, sharing her frustration on Twitter: “Today, on Jan 26, 2025, there are hundreds of people commenting on my Twitter page that specifically because I am black, they must assume I did not earn my admission into Harvard nor did I earn my diploma. Is this real life??”
2. Overcoming Adversity with Strength and Grace
Beyond her athletic achievements, Thomas has faced and overcome significant challenges. Whether recovering from injuries or dealing with online hate, she has consistently shown resilience. Her encounter with racist trolls on social media serves as an example of how she rises above negativity. Alexis Ohanian, Reddit co-founder, defended Thomas, stating, “Clowns, not people.” The strong support from fans and athletes further emphasizes her strength in the face of adversity.
3. Making History at the Olympics
Winning three Olympic gold medals in one Games is nothing short of legendary. In Tokyo 2021, Thomas won silver in the 4x100m relay and bronze in the 200m. But at the 2024 Paris Olympics, she elevated her performance to new heights, securing the 200m title and affirming her position among the world’s best sprinters. Reflecting on her achievement, she said, “This is six years in the making at least. All of it was for this moment.”
4. A Role Model for Student-Athletes
Thomas exemplifies how student-athletes can excel in both sports and academics. At Harvard, she set eight all-time records for the Crimson women’s track team, balancing top-tier competition with rigorous coursework. After graduating, she earned a Master’s in public health with a focus on epidemiology from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, proving that ambition in both academics and athletics is achievable.
5. Advocating for Change
Thomas uses her platform to address social issues such as racism and discrimination. By speaking out about the biases that Black athletes face, she challenges outdated stereotypes and fights for equal recognition. Her confidence and grace in the face of adversity make her more than an athlete—she’s a leader, a fighter, and a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
