Paris, August 10, 2024, The Europe Today: Germany celebrated a historic victory in the women’s shot put at the Paris 2024 Olympics, as 25-year-old Yemisi Ogunleye clinched gold with a remarkable 20-meter throw on her third and final attempt. This achievement marks the first Olympic gold for Germany in the event since Astrid Kumbernuss’s triumph in 1996.
Ogunleye, hailing from Mannheim in southwestern Germany, delivered a stellar performance that edged out New Zealand’s Maddison-Lee Wesche, who secured silver with a personal best of 19.86 meters. The bronze medal went to China’s Jiayuan Song, who threw 19.32 meters. Ogunleye’s compatriot, Alina Kenzel from Stuttgart, finished ninth with a throw of 18.29 meters.
In the qualification round, Ogunleye barely made it into the final, advancing on her third attempt. However, her perseverance paid off spectacularly as she became Germany’s latest Olympic champion in shot put, a moment that left her overwhelmed with emotion. “I’m lost for words, it’s unbelievable!” she told ZDF, covering her face in disbelief.
Reflecting on her winning throw, Ogunleye described feeling “an incredible calm in that moment which wasn’t from this world! I was just so focused.”
Ogunleye’s journey to Olympic glory has been anything but smooth. Originally a ballet dancer and gymnast, she transitioned to athletics at age 13. Her career was nearly derailed by a series of severe knee injuries, including two cruciate ligament tears. Yet, her resilience and determination saw her overcome these setbacks.
Off the field, Ogunleye also faced the challenges of racism due to her Nigerian background, but she credits her faith for giving her strength. “God’s love changed me,” she shared in an interview with local broadcaster SWR before the Olympics. “He is an important pillar in my life. Whatever happens, God holds my hand. And takes all the pressure away.”
With this victory, Ogunleye not only brought home a gold medal but also inspired many with her story of perseverance, faith, and triumph over adversity.
