Germany’s Yemisi Ogunleye delivered a stunning performance in the women’s shot put at the Paris Olympics on Friday, securing the gold medal with a dramatic final throw of 20.00 meters.
Ogunleye’s gold-medal-winning throw surpassed New Zealand’s Maddison-Lee Wesche, who had taken the lead with a personal best of 19.86 meters on her fifth attempt.
The bronze medal went to China’s Song Jiayuan, who recorded a throw of 19.32 meters.
Ogunleye, who had previously earned a silver medal at the 2024 World Indoor Championships and a bronze at the European Championships in Rome earlier this year, reached new heights with her Olympic victory. Her achievement marks a significant milestone in her career, showcasing her growth and resilience in the sport.
The competition was intense, with Ogunleye’s final throw propelling her to the top of the podium. The USA faced disappointment as Jaida Ross finished just outside the medals in fourth place, while her teammate Raven Saunders was eliminated after the three opening throws.
Tokyo 2020 gold medalist Gong Lijiao of China, who also won silver in London and bronze in Beijing in 2008, finished fifth, marking a surprising end to her Olympic campaign.
