‘Bring on Jefferson-Wooden’: Alfred says she is much fitter and mentally stronger than before after retaining Diamond League 100m title
Olympic 100m champion, Julien Alfred looks to have thrown down the gauntlet to Melissa Jefferson-Wooden who has been electrifying in the circuit this season, running a 10.65 World lead.
The American pulled out of the Diamond League 100m in Zurich despite qualifying, denying the world of the chance to see the fastest woman in the world this year battle it out with the Olympic champion at one of the biggest athletics stages in the world.
Alfred returned after five weeks out to prove she is up for the battle with Jefferson-Wooden, storming home first in 10.76 to retain her Diamond League title.
The Saint Lucia athlete told reporters after the race she is fitter and better than she was before taking five weeks out during the season.
‘I am surpassing the questions about my injuries. I feel like there is more work to be done. It is my first race back in five weeks so it is like one step forward to me. I am not thinking about the time. It was about to putting up the first and the second part.
‘Now, I am working on little things before Tokyo. I have a great team and they help me with the things like media attention and pressure. I feel like I want to add another gold in my collection.
‘The season has been long, but my most favourite meets – it is between London and Monaco. When I compare myself now and at the beginning of the season, I am much fitter than before and also mentally, I am on the right place where I want to be,’ said Alfred who is aiming to add the World title to her Olympic crown.
