**Raven Saunders’ Final Shot Paves the Way to Olympic Glory Amid Unyielding Pressure**
In a nail-biting climax, Charleston’s Raven Saunders proved her mettle at the Paris Olympic Games, securing her spot in the women’s shot put finals with a dramatic third and final throw. The Stade de France crowd was on its feet as Saunders, with her signature green and purple hair, black mask, and sunglasses, channeled her “Hulk” persona to unleash an 18.62-meter throw, propelling her into the medal round and keeping her dream of a second Olympic medal alive.
The 28-year-old, who claimed silver in Tokyo 2021, faced immense pressure after fouling on her first attempt and throwing 17.93 meters on her second. With American favorite Chase Jackson shockingly out of the running, Saunders’ final throw was crucial—and she delivered. Finishing fourth in her group and seventh overall, Saunders joined the top 12 finalists, including fellow American Jaida Ross.
This marks Saunders’ third Olympic appearance, a journey marked by both triumph and tragedy. After finishing fifth in Rio 2016, Saunders won silver in Tokyo—a victory shadowed by the death of her mother, Clarissa, the day after her medal win. Despite an 18-month suspension for missed drug tests in 2023, Saunders made a powerful comeback, securing second place at the U.S. Olympic Trials in June 2024.
Known for her bold protests and openness about her mental health struggles, Saunders remains a symbol of resilience and strength. As she eyes another Olympic medal, she continues to remind herself, “You’re Raven, The Hulk. You will achieve it. There’s nothing in this world that will stop you from being great, except for yourself.”
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