Gabby Thomas Victim of ’Angry’ Dina Asher-Smith as Lash Out Captured at Paris Olympics

Dina Asher-Smith, a British athlete rebounded from a devastating 100-meter disappointment to secure a spot in the 200-meter final at the Stade de France. The 28-year-old, who had been reduced to tears after missing the 100-meter final on Saturday, knew she needed a top-two finish in the second semi-final to stay in contention for her first individual Olympic medal.

On Monday evening Asher-Smith completed the race in 22.31 seconds skillfully maneuvering around the curve. Despite her performance, she was overtaken by American runner Gabby Thomas, who sprinted ahead during the segment and clinched victory, with a time of 21.86 seconds. Thomas boasting the world’s 200-meter time of 21.78 seconds set this record at the U.S. Track and field trials held in June. Though Thomas trailed at the curve, she overtook Asher-Smith on the straightaway. The race had its share of surprises, as fans on X quickly noted the unexpected dynamics of the competition and shared them!

After Gabby Thomas clinched victory in the 200-meter final, Jamie Frier, a user on X, captured an intriguing moment between the athletes. As Thomas celebrated her win, she appeared to touch Asher-Smith’s shoulder in a gesture of appreciation. However, the interaction quickly turned as Thomas broke into a broad smile, radiating pride in her accomplishment. Frier’s post, though, sparked speculation with the caption, “Um… Was that a ‘Shut up’ from Dina Asher-Smith to Gabby Thomas there? Would be a surprise, no?”

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Polls of the dayWho do you think was more at fault in the Gabby Thomas and Dina Asher-Smith clash?

Neither, just a heated moment

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His athletic achievements

How do you feel about Emma Hayes’ updates on USWNT injuries ahead of the Paris Olympics semi-final?

Do you agree with Carl Lewis’s honest take on Noah Lyles?

Well, this rivalry is certainly well-established. On Saturday, Dina Asher-Smith clocked 10.91 seconds in the 100 meters. But it unfortunately did not earn her a place in the final. The disappointment was obvious and high, as she was visibly upset and on the verge of tears following the race. Asher-Smith admitted she “ran angry,” channeling her frustration into her performance.

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Despite the emotional turmoil, she emphasized that her physical condition was excellent, making the run feel almost effortless. She highlighted the need to stay focused and calm, even while carrying the emotional weight of her earlier setback. But did this rivalry start?

The build-up to Gabby Thomas vs. Asher-SmithIt all started at the 2024 London Diamond League. When Gabby Thomas secured a win in the women’s 200m. She trailed initially as Dina Asher-Smith surged ahead, seemingly on her way to victory. But Thomas made a powerful comeback, crossing the line in 19.82 seconds—a new meet record and the second-fastest time of the season. While, Julien Alfred from St. Lucia took second place with a national record of 21.86 seconds, while Asher-Smith finished third with 22.07 seconds.

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As the finals approach the competition is really heating up. Dina Asher Smith, a World Champion and Diamond League Final victor holds a personal record of 21.88 seconds set in 2019 and a season-best of 22.07 seconds. On the side, Gabby Thomas, a World Champion and Olympic Games silver medalist has a personal best of 21.60 seconds and a season best of 21.78 seconds. With their achievements and close race times, it will be interesting to see who emerges victorious in the face-off.