"I will forever be grateful"- Julien Alfred pens a heartfelt note as Saint Lucia celebrates day honoring her for winning two medals at Paris Olympics

Julien Alfred penned a heartfelt note as her country, Saint Lucia celebrated a day honoring her for her incredible pursuits at the Paris Olympics. She created history by becoming the first athlete to win the gold medal for Saint Lucia at the Olympic Games.

Alfred did not return to Saint Lucia right after the Paris Olympics as she was seen on the track two weeks after the quadrennial Games to continue her season and compete in the Diamond League Series. After winning the Brussels Diamond League Finals and concluding the most successful season of her career, the Olympic gold medalist returned to her country, received a hero's welcome, and celebrated over four days.

Prime Minister of Saint Lucia Philip J. Pierre announced in a pre-cabinet press briefing that September 27 will officially be declared as "Julien Alfred Day" to honor the victorious pursuits of the athlete. She received a grand welcome, which was followed by several events where Alfred met children in a school rally as well as a motorcade. A free concert was organized at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground in the evening where people came out in huge numbers to meet their national icon.

She took to Instagram to pen a note of gratitude for receiving such an honor.

"HAPPY JULIEN ALFRED DAY!🇱🇨 The past four days here on the island has been nothing short of amazing! I have laughed, cried, danced, and celebrated with my fellow Saint Lucians and today we get to end it all on a very special day at the Daren Sammy Cricket Grounds. To All, both here and abroad, thank you for celebrating me. I will forever be grateful. Saint Lucia will always be in my heart!" she wrote.

Julien Alfred on winning first Olympic gold medal in Paris

Julien Alfred at the Olympic Games Paris 2024: Day 8 - Source: Getty

Julien Alfred competed in the women's 100m finals against a highly competitive line-up that included Sha'Carri Richardson and Mellisa Jefferson, among others. She clocked 10.72s to win the gold medal and USA's Sha'Carri Richardson took home the silver medal with a performance of 10.87s.

She took to Instagram to express her thoughts after winning her first Olympic gold medal.

"Winning GOLD in the 100m in Paris is still surreal. The journey has been long, winding, and demanding, but every sacrifice, every tear, and every early morning was worth it. I’m humbled and grateful for God’s grace and mercy," she wrote.

Furthermore, she thanked her coach, family, and fans for their unwavering support throughout the 2024 season.