German javelin thrower Julia Ulbricht wins surprise European silver

Julia Ulbricht achieved a sensational silver medal in the javelin throw at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham, marking a career highlight for the 25-year-old.

In the first major final of her career, Ulbricht surprised competitors and spectators alike by securing second place with a throw of 61.53 meters on her very first attempt. She was only surpassed by Croatia's Sara Kolak, who claimed the gold medal with 62.43 meters, while Serbia's Adriana Vilagos took bronze with 60.93 meters.

Ulbricht's silver-medal throw came within five centimeters of her personal best, which she set just three weeks prior when winning the German Championships. This achievement is particularly significant as it's the first European Championship medal for a German female javelin thrower in eight years, since Christin Maurer's gold in Berlin.

Despite her recent personal best, Ulbricht was considered an underdog entering the championships. However, she signaled her potential by finishing second in the qualification round with a throw of 60.86 meters. "I always wanted a medal on the international stage," a euphoric Ulbricht stated after the competition. "Oh my God. I still can't believe it. I'm speechless."

Ulbricht's journey has been marked by challenging years, during which she even contemplated quitting the sport. Now, with this significant achievement, her aspirations are renewed. "My dream is still to make it to the Olympics," she added, looking ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

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I always wanted a medal on the international stage. Oh my God. I still can't believe it. I'm speechless.