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Olympic champion Masai Russell has disclosed the dynamics of sharing a room with fellow American Olympian Tara Davis-Woodhall in Paris Olympic village during the summer games.
In a candid recount of her experience at the Paris Olympics, Masai Russell, the newly crowned Olympic champion in the Women's 100m hurdles, has opened up about her inspiring bond with fellow American Olympian Tara Davis-Woodhall.
Both athletes achieved gold in Paris with Russell in her discipline and Davis-Woodhall in the Women’s Long Jump, marking a historic moment for the duo who shared a room in the Olympic Village.
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20:00 - 03.12.2024
'When I watch it back I still can't believe it'- Masai Russell reveals struggles that made Paris Olympic triumph even more special
Olympic champion Masai Russell overcame adversity on her path to glory at the Olympic games in Paris.
Reflecting on their journey, Russell credited Davis-Woodhall’s simple yet powerful act of motivation for their dual success.
“She was my roommate in Paris, and people often ask about our relationship, especially during the Olympics. Tara is so goofy and fun to be around, but she’s also incredibly focused. Before the Games, she printed out a photo of us from the Olympic trials, standing with gold medals. She hung it up in our room and said, ‘This is the goal,’” Russell shared in YouTube video.
Davis-Woodhall claimed her gold medal in the long jump the night before Russell’s 100m hurdles final. Her victory was a spark of inspiration.
“I couldn’t sleep that night. My eyes were closed, but I was wide awake. Tara came in and jumped on me, saying, ‘You already know what to do.’ The next day, I went out there, gave it my all, and won. Right after my race, we were FaceTiming each other, holding our gold medals. It was such a monumental moment for both of us,” Russell added.
This was Russell’s first Olympic outing and Davis-Woodhall’s second, but the two found common ground as young, ambitious athletes striving for greatness.
Russell expressed admiration for her friend, describing her as a source of inspiration.
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11:30 - 02.12.2024
'Gold was just the beginning' - Masai Russell fired up ahead of crucial 2025 season
Masai Russell is motivated to win more gold medals in her specialty and the Paris glory is a source of her inspiration.
“Tara and her husband, Hunter, are so motivational. I look up to them a lot. We’re young, and we’re killing it, but she’s the friend I look to for advice, whether it’s about investments or what to do next. She’s on another level, and I’m just trying to catch up,” Russell said with a laugh.
Their shared Olympic triumph is a testament to their camaraderie and drive with their friendship serving as a reminder of the power of mutual support.
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