Simone Manuel wins world championship in Hungary
Sometimes, lightning does strike twice. Simone Manuel’s done it again after winning gold at the world swimming championships in Budapest, Hungary.
Manuel was a household name during the Rio Olympics after she became the first Black woman to win a gold medal in an individual event. Despite that, Manuel was viewed as an underdog going into the 100-meter freestyle, according to Rolling Out.
This was less about her own abilities and more about Sweden’s Sarah Sjöström setting a new world record earlier that day. Which is why it wasn’t all that surprising when Sjöström had the lead for the first half of the race with Manuel coming in 3rd.
But the race took a turn once the swimmers hit the wall and turned back. Manuel’s exceptional breathing abilities came in handy and she edged out Sjöström by .04 seconds.
“I think I always have a shot,” Manuel said, according to a USA Swimming press release. “I think that’s why I’m the swimmer that I am. I just know how to race, and I try to get my hand on the wall first. I just had confidence in the training I had done and my performance going into the race.”
We wish Manuel even more success in the future as she continues to have a long, prosperous career. She hasn’t even turned 21 yet!