Julien Alfred delivered one of the most electrifying performances of the 2025 season, scorching to a personal best and world-leading time of 21.71 seconds in the women’s 200m at the Wanda Diamond League meet in London. The St. Lucian sprint sensation not only stunned a stacked field but also announced herself as a major contender for gold at the upcoming World Athletics Championships.
Held at the London Stadium, the event was expected to feature a fierce battle between several elite sprinters, but it was Alfred who stole the spotlight with a blistering bend and powerful finishing surge that left her rivals in her wake.
The time of 21.71 seconds is not only the fastest in the world this year but also the quickest of Alfred’s career, surpassing her previous best of 21.91. The performance shattered her national record for Saint Lucia and elevated her to new levels of global recognition.
From the gun, Alfred exploded out of the blocks with intent, quickly making up the stagger on her outside competitors. By the halfway point, she was already in control, and she maintained her momentum down the home straight to cross the line with a clear margin. Her reaction time, transition, and closing speed were textbook examples of a perfectly executed 200m.
Behind her, American star Abby Steiner finished second in a respectable 22.05, while British hopeful Daryll Neita rounded out the podium with a season’s best of 22.18. Despite their strong efforts, neither could match the form and drive that Alfred brought to the track on the day.
The performance adds to what has already been a breakout year for the 23-year-old sprinter, who previously made headlines with consistent wins over 100m and solid relay contributions. However, her run in London marks a new milestone, positioning her not just as a Diamond League threat but as a genuine medal contender at the world level.
Speaking after the race, Alfred expressed joy and determination: “I’ve been working very hard with my coach, and I came here focused and ready. I didn’t expect 21.71, but I knew I had something special in me today. To do it in front of such a great crowd, and against top competition, feels amazing.”
Her performance is now the talk of the sprinting world, especially with the Paris Olympics drawing closer. The 200m event is expected to be one of the marquee showdowns in athletics, and Alfred’s emergence as the world leader adds a fresh narrative to the battle, which is likely to include Sha’Carri Richardson, Shericka Jackson, and Gabby Thomas.
What makes Alfred’s feat even more impressive is the maturity and composure she displayed throughout the competition. In an era dominated by big names and pressure-packed races, her calm demeanor and tactical sharpness suggest she is ready to handle the sport’s biggest stages.
As the Diamond League series continues, all eyes will be on Julien Alfred. With her combination of raw speed, improved strength, and technical precision, the Saint Lucian star has elevated herself into the global spotlight—and after her London triumph, the w
orld is watching.
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