Julien Alfred recently experienced a dream come true when she met sprinting legend Usain Bolt during the Diamond League Meeting in Oslo. The reigning Olympic 100m champion has always looked up to Bolt as a role model, and their brief interaction left her deeply inspired and motivated as she made her season debut in the 100m.
Alfred, who clocked an impressive 10.89 seconds to win the race ahead of elite sprinters Marie Josée Ta Lou-Smith and Dina Asher-Smith, described meeting Bolt as an unforgettable moment. Although she had prepared a list of questions for him, time constraints meant she could only ask a few. However, what Bolt shared with her made a lasting impact.
During their conversation, Alfred asked Bolt how he managed to move forward and stay successful even after reaching the top. Bolt’s advice was simple yet powerful: “Take it easy, take one day at a time, and give yourself grace.” His words resonated with Alfred, especially as she navigates the pressures of being a world-class athlete.
Bolt also warned about the dangers of complacency after major victories. He emphasized the importance of consistency, reminding Alfred that skipping practice in the wake of success can derail progress. Alfred acknowledged that this advice struck a chord with her, especially since she surrounds herself with a dedicated support team that keeps her focused and grounded. She expressed gratitude for her journey and stressed the importance of remembering her roots as she continues to chase her goals.
Reflecting on her race in Oslo, Alfred viewed it more as a testing ground than a high-stakes competition. It marked her first 100m of the season, and she used the opportunity to evaluate her form and readiness. The result affirmed that her training is on track, and she expressed satisfaction with her performance.
She shared that her primary focus going forward will be on refining her race execution, particularly the final phase. According to Alfred, the closing meters are where things tend to unravel, and improving her finishing will be key to maintaining her dominance throughout the season.
Healthy, focused, and highly motivated, Alfred is now setting her sights on the next challenge the Diamond League Meeting in Stockholm, where she will again take on the 100m. Buoyed by Bolt’s advice and her recent victory, she is determined to keep improving and remain a force to reckon with in global sprinting.
As she continues her 2025 campaign, Julien Alfred embodies a blend of humility, discipline, and ambition traits inspired and reinforced by her brief but meaningful exchange with the greatest sprinter of all time.
