In Brussels Thiam will make her first major appearance after winning the heptathlon gold medal at the world championships in London. “Being able to celebrate that world title with the Belgian crowd is very special,” Thiam said ahead of the event. “It’s a pleasure to be here. A few years ago I came to the Memorial as a spectator with my club. Now I’m coming to celebrate a gold medal. Everything has changed.”
Thiam recovered from her exploits with a long vacation in Miami, so she’s keen to keep the expectations low. Also, this year the women’s high jump is a Diamond League final event, unlike last year when Thiam competed in an event tailored to her level. “I’m not expecting an outstanding performance,” Thiam explained.
“I just had a long rest. I ran a little bit, but I didn’t do any specific training. I’m really looking forward to a good jump, but don’t expect a 2m04,” she laughed, holding a personal best of 1m98.
Thiam doesn’t regret going on vacation straight after the world championships, rather than delaying her break until after her home event. “I need some rest and I wanted to get away from all the tension,” she added. “Sometimes it’s nice to make everything stop. It was the only possible period to go on vacation. But I can’t wait for the Memorial to begin!"
