Gabby Thomas has issued a stern warning to her competitors, including Shericka Jackson, Julien Alfred, and Brittany Brown, following her recognition as the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Female Athlete of the Year.
The triple Olympic champion, who earned three gold medals at the Paris Games, emphasized her determination to continue her dominant streak.
Thomas delivered a commanding performance in Paris, winning the women’s 200m ahead of Alfred and Brown, and playing a crucial role in Team USA’s victories in the 4x100m and 4x400m relays. Reflecting on the accolade, she expressed her gratitude and resolve, stating on her X (Twitter) handle:
“Jackie Joyner-Kersee female athlete of the year✨. Thank you @usatf, and to my day one who presented me the award @BaileyTonja. Humbled, honored, and not slowing down.”
Despite finishing second to Brittany Brown in the women’s 200m at the Athlos NYC meet to cap off her season, Thomas views the recognition as a motivational boost.
She has already signaled her readiness to dominate next season, as athletes prepare for the post-Olympic year, aiming for redemption or to build on their successes.
Shericka Jackson, sidelined from the Paris Games due to injury, will return with a vengeance in 2025. As the fastest woman alive over 200m, Jackson remains a formidable rival, intent on reclaiming her status as the titleholder.
Meanwhile, Brittany Brown, who defeated Thomas at the Athlos NYC meet, will aim to convert her Olympic 200m bronze into a higher podium finish at the World Championships. Her strength over the distance positions her as a serious contender.
Julien Alfred, while excelling in the 100m, has untapped potential in the 200m. With her coach’s ambitious plans for development, she could emerge as a dominant force in both events, though her focus may remain primarily on the shorter sprint next season.
The stage is set for a thrilling 2025 season, with the women’s 200m promising to be a fiercely contested showdown.
