Eventually, we might reminisce about Paris as a tough and character-building time in Rhasidat Adeleke’s profession. Rolling the experiences four years ahead, perhaps she will find herself on a Los Angeles podium, reminiscing over the feeling of finishing fourth at the Stade de France and not securing a medal during her inaugural Olympic final. It may not provide much solace, but presently, it’s the only comfort available.
Although Adeleke clocked her third quickest ever time, it was not sufficient for a victory. Both Marileidy Paulino of the Dominican Republic and Bahrain’s Salwa Eid Naser had reserved the spots for gold and silver from early on, resulting in a contest for bronze between Adeleke and her Polish rival, Natalia Kaczmarek. Adeleke entered the final stretch with a lead, however, Kaczmarek cleverly surpassed her in the last 50 metres.
Concluding in fourth position qualifies as the most disappointing Olympic experience you can have. “Definitely disheartened,” Adeleke confessed later. “I was aware that I possessed more potential than I exhibited today. But that’s part of the sport, isn’t it. Victories and defeats are a given. The key is to perform on the day, and today was unfortunately not my day.
“Today, I fell short of achieving my dreams. But I hope the future holds more opportunities for me to excel when it matters the most, and to reach the podium. Today just wasn’t my day, but as my first Olympics, I’m thankful to be in good health. I aim to be where I desire to be in the future, and that’s what I will strive to achieve. My motivation is at its peak.
“Having a multitude of people rallying in my support is truly remarkable. I aimed to win a medal primarily for that reason – to provide them with an additional cause to celebrate. However, today was not the destined day, but I remain hopeful that in the future, I can bestow a medal to my Irish supporters.”
Rhasidat Adeleke’s Olympic journey hasn’t concluded yet. The outstanding performance by the ladies’ 4x400m team in the semi-finals guarantees one more final for Ireland to participate in. Adeleke affirmed her intention to compete in the event, which is set for 8.14pm Irish time. It is presumed that she will replace Kelly McGrory, joining team members Phil Healy, Sophie Becker, and Sharlene Mawdsley.
Rhasidat Adeleke truly deserves accolades.
— Athletics Ireland (@irishathletics) August 9, 2024
She secured a remarkable 4th place in the Olympic 400m final. With this extraordinary accomplishment, she has put Ireland on the map, being the first Irish woman to compete in an Olympic sprint final!
📸SportsfileSam#TeamIreland | #IrishAthletics | #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/QuM9MmV4Py
While Ireland may not be the favourite for the medal, relay races often produce surprising outcomes, as seen throughout this week.
“Indeed,” she said. “I view it as another chance.”
The journey continues.