In the Olympics, fractions of a second can be the difference between dreams coming true and absolute heartbreak.
On Friday in Paris, it was the former for United States middle distance runner Juliette Whittaker, who qualified for the semifinals in the women’s 800-meter by the skin of her teeth. She finished third in her qualifying heat with just .003 seconds separating her and fourth-place finisher Valentina Rosamilia.
Whittaker had the exact reaction you would have expected after the race, going from anxiety to sheer relief when she was announced in third place. These two photos really speak for themselves.
Juliette Whittaker qualifies for the 800m semifinals by .003 seconds and her reaction is what dreams are made of. #ParisOlympics pic.twitter.com/htaPor0zWz
— On Her Turf (@OnHerTurf) August 2, 2024
Juliette Whittaker qualifies for the 800m semifinals in a PHOTO FINISH. #ParisOlympics
NBC, E! and Peacock pic.twitter.com/rDOKHDfZCg
— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) August 2, 2024
Whittaker, a 20-year-old who attends Stanford, is making her Olympic debut. She’s a two-time national champion in the women’s 800-meter, and now, she’s looking to medal in her first appearance at the Games.
The semifinal in the women’s 800-meter will be held on Sunday.
