Five-time Olympic medalist Simone Manuel splashed and dashed her way to a win in the women’s 50-meter freestyle final at U.S. Olympic trials, securing her a spot in an individual event at the Paris Olympics.
Manuel, 27, had already qualified for her third Olympic team as part of the 4×100 freestyle relay. And while she was emotional and happy to make Team USA after a challenging few years, she also clearly felt disappointed by not qualifying as an individual in the 100-meter freestyle. Her last chance was the 50 free, the event in which she’d won silver at the 2016 Olympics.
But she wasn’t feeling confident heading into Sunday’s final at Lucas Oil Stadium. Not after watching both Gretchen Walsh and Torri Huske put up lifetime bests of 24.06 and 24.09, respectively. They seemed like heavy favorites to take the two Olympic qualifying spots in the event. So, she put on some old races.
“I spent a lot of time watching races where I won. I really wanted to channel that Simone, because I know I’m a winner,” Manuel said.
She sure is, one of the best closers in the sport when she’s at her best. She won the 50 free in 24.13 seconds to secure her spot in the event at the Games. Walsh finished second, adding an event to her Paris program as well.
SIMONE. MANUEL. 😤@swimone…
