You took the lead in the final sprint and set a new Olympic Games record. How did you feel?

To be honest, it felt like a firework went off in my head. I stayed focused all the way to the finish line, even up to the last 10 meters, because I was afraid of falling. In a marathon, you never know what can happen. It was just pure happiness when I crossed the finish line.

You competed in the marathon just 35 hours after winning the bronze medal in the 10,000meter race. How did you manage to rest and recover in such a short amount of time?

I knew sleep and nutrition were going to be key from the start — not just in between the 10,000-meter race and the marathon but throughout the entire Olympic Games. I tried to stay away from any distractions and got as much sleep as possible!

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▲ (From left) Silver medalist Beatrice Chebet of Team Kenya, gold medalist Faith Kipyegon of Team Kenya and bronze medalist Sifan Hassan of Team Netherlands pose for a Victory Selfie after the women’s 5,000-meter final. (Photo by Andy Astfalck / BSR Agency / Getty Images)

It was the first time the women’s marathon medal ceremony was held at the closing ceremony. How did that feel?

To think that millions of people were watching felt very special. It was nice to have my fellow Dutch athletes right next to me on the course, cheering me on.

In the Voices of Galaxy video, you mentioned the importance of maintaining a strong mindset as an Olympic athlete. What are some ways you stay focused and positive?

I always try to be grateful for everything I’ve accomplished. Before the Olympic Games, I was already thankful just to have qualified for different events and to be able to compete. You can’t take everything for granted and simply move on from achievements you’ve worked hard for. It’s important to recognize how far you’ve come and appreciate the progress.

▲ Sifan Hassan of Team Netherlands celebrates after winning the women’s marathon. (Photo by Cameron Spencer / Getty Images)

You completed the marathon at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in 2 hours, 22 minutes and 55 seconds. While this is an incredibly fast time, running for that long still requires immense mental endurance. What went through your mind during the run?

Racing is the most exciting part! I just focused on staying with the lead pack for as long as possible.

Do you have a message for your fellow Team Samsung Galaxy members who are competing at the Paralympic Games Paris 2024?

I am so inspired by the athletes. They know better than anyone else that the human mind is unbelievably powerful. I wish them the best!

What challenge are you taking on next?

It’s a tough question to answer. The Olympic Games are obviously the highest point in our sport, so this was the big goal. I plan to take some time to appreciate everything I’ve done to get here and carefully think of next steps as I return to training!

Whats your message to the next generation who looks up to you and is inspired by your achievements and drive?

Sports are so important. They make you healthier, help you live longer and encourage you to set goals in all areas of your life. Please exercise and try to inspire the people around you to do the same!