Dr Andrew Holness hailed the Jamaican athletes for their outstanding performances at the World Athletics Championship taking place in Japan, as he was sworn in for a third term as prime minister on Tuesday.

At the World Athletics Championship, Oblique Seville became Jamaica’s newly crowned world 100m champion. In converting his undeniable talent into gold in Tokyo, the 24-year-old became the first Jamaican man to win a global 100-metre title since the nation’s retired icon, Usain Bolt, did so in Rio nine years ago.

Jamaica also picked up a pair of medals in the men’s 110-metre hurdles, as Orlando Bennett led compatriot Tyler Mason in second and third place finishes.

“We are a small nation, but we are a nation of extraordinary influence. Few countries of our size can claim the global reach that Jamaica enjoys,” Holness said during his swearing-in ceremony at King’s House in St Andrew.

“Our athletes dominate the biggest stages. I want to acknowledge Oblique, Kishane, Tina, Orlando, Tyler and all the members of the Jamaican contingent who participated in the World Athletics Championship,” Holness added.

He then made a special acknowledgement of Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, “who carried the Jamaican flag with dignity and excellence”.

The iconic Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce ran her Final 100-meter, ending her career in the same way she began racing on the international stage 18 years ago in Japan—with fierce speed, strength, and composure.