Ireland’s Kellie Harrington has etched her name in the annals of Olympic history, winning consecutive gold medals with a victory over China’s Wenlu Yang in the women’s 60kg final at Roland Garros.
Following the bout, Harrington announced that this triumph would mark the end of her illustrious boxing career as she looks forward to beginning a new chapter of her life with her partner, Mandy.
For the 34-year-old, this victory was the perfect send-off. In an atmosphere that felt more like Dublin than Paris, Harrington secured a split 4-1 points decision over Yang.
Harrington’s gold medal has contributed to making Paris 2024 the most successful Olympics in Ireland’s history, with the nation winning a total of four golds and three bronze medals.
It was particularly fitting for Harrington to achieve this feat, as the Dublin boxer had previously won gold in Tokyo three years ago, solidifying her status as one of Ireland’s greatest Olympians.
Upon the announcement of her victory, Harrington fell to her knees in jubilation before dancing in the ring, while the large contingent of Irish supporters celebrated wildly in the stands of Court Philippe-Chatrier.
The Irish fans, energized by the victory, moved closer to the ring as the medal ceremony was prepared, with the in-house sound system keeping the celebratory mood alive with hit songs.
As Harrington stepped forward to receive her gold medal, the stadium erupted in deafening cheers and whistles, with her radiant smile visible to everyone in attendance.
Overcome with emotion, Harrington burst into tears as she was officially declared an Olympic champion for the second time, the magnitude of her achievement beginning to sink in.