- Sha’Carri Richardson is commonly known for being one of the fastest women in the world, dominating track and field.
- However, her journey to stardom — personal and professional — has not been easy.
- Explore the astonishing details of the many challenges the athlete had to overcome with this closer look at her life.
From her humble beginnings to breaking records and qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Sha’Carri’s journey to stardom is a story of perseverance. Growing up without her parents, Sha’Carri discovered her love for running early on and quickly rose through the ranks.
Sha’Carri Richardson celebrating crossing the finish line to win the Women’s 100-meter Final during the Diamond League athletics meeting on August 31, 2023. | Source: Getty Images
Despite facing harsh criticism over her appearance, enduring an abusive relationship, and losing her biological mother — an event that led to a career-altering suspension— Sha’Carri emerged stronger than ever. Take a closer look at how this extraordinary athlete turned obstacles into stepping stones on her path to becoming a global star.
Sha’Carri Richardson after competing in the women’s 200-meter Semifinal on day eight of the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Track and Field Trials on June 28 in Eugene, Oregon. | Source: Getty Images
From Humble Beginnings to Record-Breaking Sprinter
Sha’Carri was born in Dallas, Texas, and found her passion for running at an early age. Little is known about her biological parents, as she was not raised by them. Instead, a young Sha’Carri started calling her aunt, Shay Richardson, Mom.
Her grandmother, Betty Harp, or “Big Mama,” also had a huge impact on the athlete’s life. Lauren Cross, the track coach at Sha’Carri’s high school, Carter High School, was another key figure during Sha’Carri’s developmental years.
The track coach saw Sha’Carri’s extraordinary talent when she was just 14 and nurtured it. Lauren recalled the amazement of onlookers, saying, “People would say, ‘That little girl, she’s running so fast?'”
She often thought about the medals on Big Mama’s wall — awards won by Shay, the family track star. Inspired by her aunt, young Sha’Carri would challenge her to races up their South Dallas street.
“We’d go from the bottom of the hill to Big Mama’s car. She [Shay] didn’t slow down. She didn’t let me win. And I think it was in fifth grade, the day I touched the car first. That’s when I knew,” Sha’Carri reminisced.
Under Lauren’s guidance, Sha’Carri left competitors in the dust, easily breaking Texas state records. However, Lauren soon became more than a coach. Sha’Carri saw her as extended family, earning Lauren the title of Godmother.
Sha’Carri won three Texas state titles in high school and became the top-ranked sprinter in the class of 2018. By the time she graduated, Sha’Carri was the number-one female sprint recruit in the United States.
In her freshman year at Louisiana State University, Sha’Carri broke the 100-meter collegiate record with a time of 10.75 seconds. This made her one of the ten fastest women in history at that time.
Her rapid rise in college athletics left little else to prove, so she turned professional. Sha’Carri signed with Nike and began training under Dennis Mitchell, who saw immense potential in her.
Dennis described Sha’Carri as a “once-in-a-generation talent.” He further noted, “Running that fast, it’s not natural — not for anyone. You have to teach your body to push that hard and to make all the little adjustments that shave off a half-second here, a half-second there.”
“One aspect of Sha’Carri’s talent is that when you tell her, ‘Do this,’ she understands how to apply the change. She’s very in tune with her body,” Dennis continued.
Sha’Carri Richardson competing in the 2022 Diamond League series on September 8 in Zurich, Switzerland. | Source: Getty Images
Embracing Identity and Style – Sha’Carri Richardson’s Fierce Presence on and off the Track
Over the years, Sha’Carri has become well-known for her incredible speed and talent. However, many also admire her for being a proud young Black woman who competes with confidence.
She became a star to watch after her impressive performance at trials. Sha’Carri also wowed spectators with her striking hairstyles, long nails, nose rings, and tattoos.
Sha’Carri Richardson smiling after placing second in the Women’s 100-meter race during the New York Grand Prix on June 12, 2022. | Source: Getty Images
On May 9, 2021, Sha’Carri competed in the USATF Golden Games and World Athletics Continental Tour in a vibrant, electric blue wig. Her bold-colored locks flowed freely as she sprinted down the track, winning the Women’s 100 Meter Dash Prelims. Sha’Carri also maintained her signature long and carefully crafted nails.
Sha’Carri Richardson after winning in the Women’s 100-meter Dash Prelims during the USATF Golden Games and World Athletics Continental Tour event on May 9, 2021, in Walnut, California. | Source: Getty Images
On August 23, 2023, Sha’Carri took part in day five of the World Athletics Championships rocking intricate cornrows gathered into thick braids. The detailed pattern of the cornrows highlighted her creative approach to hairstyles. Her nails, on the other hand, were long and coffin-shaped, featuring a delicate floral design.
Sha’Carri Richardson during the Women’s 200-meter Heats during day five of the World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023 on August 23 in Hungary. | Source: Getty Images
On August 26, 2023, Sha’Carri took to the podium to receive her bronze medal during the World Athletics Championships in a stylish combination of braided hair accented with vibrant red and yellow streaks.
Her nails were long and elaborately decorated, featuring a mix of pastel colors and intricate designs. Each nail showed a unique pattern, adorned with glittering accents and three-dimensional embellishments.
Sha’Carri Richardson on the podium to receive her bronze medal for the Women’s 200-meter Final during the medal ceremony of the World Athletics Championships on August 26, 2023, in Budapest, Hungary. | Source: Getty Images
On June 22, 2024, Sha’Carri participated in the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Track and Field Trials in a sleek, black wig that cascaded down her back. Her nails were even more elaborate and colorful, showcasing her flair for unique and bold designs.
Each nail featured a different design with vibrant hues and intricate patterns, making her hands as eye-catching as her athletic prowess.
Sha’Carri Richardson ahead of competing in the Women’s 100-meter Semifinal on day two of the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Track and Field Trials on June 22, 2024, in Eugene, Oregon. | Source: Getty Images
On July 26, 2024, Sha’Carri showcased her American flag-inspired nails during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Her nails made a bold and patriotic statement, featuring a vibrant mix of red, white, and blue hues, three-dimensional decorations, and metallic embellishments.
Sha’Carri Richardson showing off her nails during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics on July 26, 2024, in France.| Source: Getty Images
However, not everyone has come to love Sha’Carri’s signature flair and style over the years. One Instagram user commented, “Her nails look terrible.” The conversation about Sha’Carri’s appearance also occurred on X, formerly known as Twitter.
A user remarked, “Sha’Carri Richardson could probably cut that 100 time down if she left those fingernails at home. wtf is going on with her fingers? (sic)”
Another social media user typed, “Remove the noise, remove the fake nails, focus and let your racing do the talking. This is the result: Gold Medal and Championship record. Take a bow Sha’Carri Richardson.”
Sha’Carri, however, confidently responded to her critics. “I didn’t know the weight of my hair or the length of my nails impact my legs going up & down but OKAYYYYY,” she stated.
The Scandal That Rocked the Track – Sha’Carri Richardson’s 2020 Olympic Setback
After making history during her only year at Louisiana State University and turning professional, Sha’Carri set her sights on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In 2021, ahead of the COVID-delayed games, she emerged as a favorite to win in Tokyo.
This was the result of her stunning victory in the Women’s100-meter race at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials, where she clocked a remarkable time of 10.86 seconds. However, Sha’Carri’s dreams were abruptly put on hold.
Sha’Carri Richardson running in the Women’s 100-meter Semifinal on day two of the 2020 U.S. Olympic Track and Field Team Trials on June 19, 2021, in Eugene, Oregon. | Source: Getty Images
She was suspended from the USA Track and Field team after testing positive for THC, the active compound in marijuana. Sha’Carri later revealed that she used the drug to manage her overwhelming emotional distress. She had learned from a reporter that her biological mother had died.
Sha’Carri explained to Savannah Guthrie in an exclusive “TODAY” interview that she wasn’t making excuses or seeking empathy by opening up about how deeply affected she was by the news of her mother’s death.
Sha’Carri Richardson during The Diamond League AG Memorial Van Damme athletics meeting on September 3, 2021, in Brussels, Belgium. | Source: Getty Images
She shared that people didn’t understand what it was like to put on a brave face in front of the world while hiding her pain. Sha’Carri questioned, “Who am I to tell you how to cope when you’re dealing with the pain or you’re dealing with a struggle that you haven’t experienced before or that you thought you never would have to deal with?”
Accepting responsibility, Sha’Carri took a one-month suspension from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency for the violation, missing out on the upcoming Olympics. She candidly admitted, “I know what I did, I know what I’m supposed to do…and I still made that decision.”
The USA Track and Field organization issued a statement expressing their support and concern for her well-being. They emphasized that athlete health and well-being were critical priorities.
Sha’Carri Richardson on day two of the 2020 U.S. Olympic Track and Field Team Trials on June 19, 2021, in Eugene, Oregon. | Source: Getty Images
The organization added that they would work with Sha’Carri to ensure she had the resources to overcome any mental health challenges. Sha’Carri also took to social media to address the situation.
“I’m sorry, I can’t be y’all Olympic Champ this year but I promise I’ll be your World Champ next year,” she shared. The athlete added in another post, “All these perfect people that know how to live life, I’m glad I’m not one of them!”
A Triumphant Return – Sha’Carri Richardson’s Historic Comeback
Following her anti-doping suspension, Sha’Carri made an extraordinary comeback. This ended in a gold medal at the 2023 World Championships, showcasing her resilience and determination.
Sha’Carri claimed gold in the 100-meter race, clocking an impressive 10.65 seconds. She triumphed over Jamaican stars Shericka Jackson and five-time world champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce.
Sha’Carri Richardson ahead of the Women’s 100-meter Semifinal during the World Athletics Championships on August 21, 2023, in Budapest, Hungary. | Source: Getty Images
This win was the result of a two-year journey of hard work. Reflecting on her relentless spirit, Sha’Carri repeated her mantra, “I’m not back. I’m better.” However, her path to victory was not easy. In the semifinals, she faced tough competition in what was called the “Semifinal of Death.”
Sha’Carri had to run against top contenders like Shericka and Marie-Josée Ta Lou. Despite a challenging start that saw her trailing in seventh place, Sha’Carri fought her way to finish third with a time of 10.84 seconds.
Sha’Carri Richardson racing in the Women’s 100-meter Semifinal during the World Athletics Championships on August 21, 2023, in Budapest, Hungary. | Source: Getty Images
This was the fastest time among all non-qualifiers, securing her a spot in the final. Only 70 minutes after the tough semifinal, Sha’Carri lined up in lane nine for the gold-medal sprint. This lane is hard because it offers no way to gauge the performance of other competitors.
However, Sha’Carri stayed focused. Despite having the third-slowest start in the field, she quickly gained ground. In the final stretch, it became a race between her and Shericka.
Sha’Carri Richardson running in the Women’s 100-meter Semifinal during the World Athletics Championships on August 21, 2023, in Budapest, Hungary. | Source: Getty Images
Shericka crossed the finish line and, unsure of Sha’Carri’s position on the outside, looked at the scoreboard, thinking she might have won. But Sha’Carri edged her out by 0.07 seconds, with Shelly-Ann trailing by 0.12 seconds, and Marie-Josée by 0.16 seconds.
Sha’Carri Richardson racing in the Women’s 100-meter Semifinal during the World Athletics Championships on August 21, 2023, in Budapest, Hungary. | Source: Getty Images
Sha’Carri’s time of 10.65 seconds set a world championship record. This was a remarkable achievement second only to Florence Griffith-Joyner’s world record of 10.49 seconds set 35 years earlier. The performance also tied Shericka for the fastest time in the world that year, cementing Sha’Carri’s status as a top-tier sprinter.
Sha’Carri Richardson celebrating winning the Women’s 100-meter Semifinal during the World Athletics Championships on August 21, 2023, in Budapest, Hungary. | Source: Getty Images
Opening Up About Her Sexuality and Overcoming Abuse
In 2015, Sha’Carri took a brave step in sharing her truth with the world. She took to X to seemingly open up about her sexuality, posting, “My family know im bi (sic).”
By June 2021, Sha’Carri further opened up about her personal life, revealing she was in a relationship with a woman. During an interview, she mentioned that her unnamed girlfriend at the time had helped her choose the color for one of her wigs.
Just a few days later, Sha’Carri expressed her support for the LGBTQ community by posting a rainbow emoticon, a symbol synonymous with Gay Pride.
However, Sha’Carri’s personal life took a darker turn in 2022. She bravely shared on social media that she had been in an abusive relationship. Though she did not name her abuser, she shared her painful experience, shedding light on a distressing chapter of her life.
Later, her ex-girlfriend, fellow track star Janeek Brown, publicly stated during an interview that she had been abusive towards Sha’Carri. Janeek also mentioned that Sha’Carri had the option to press charges if she wanted to.
Embracing Her Identity and Honoring Her Grandmother
Sha’Carri’s journey has been marked by many challenges, but her focus on track and field has stayed strong. Every time she stepped onto the track, it validated the countless hours of training and the daily sacrifices she made.
For Sha’Carri, getting into the starting blocks was about doing the job. However, it also reminded her that happiness had to be earned and that joy awaited at the finish line.
Sha’Carri Richardson celebrating as she crossed the finishing line of the Women’s 4×100-meter Relay Final during the World Athletics Championships on August 26, 2023, in Budapest, Hungary. | Source: Getty Images
Each race was a reflective journey that brought to mind all the moments from her youth that shaped her. The feelings she experienced as a little girl remained with her, reminding her of the hard work and dedication that brought there.
Sha’Carri felt that every moment on the track was special because it included all her past experiences, both good and bad, leading her to where she was meant to be.
The Olympian emphasized the importance of showing up consistently, no matter what. She acknowledged that many people only think about track and field every four years during the Olympics, focusing on those brief moments on TV.
However, for her, track was a daily commitment. Every choice she made — what she ate, drank, and how she managed her time — directly impacted her performance. This daily dedication was what the world often did not see.
Sha’Carri Richardson during the 2020 U.S. Olympic Track and Field Team Trials on June 19, 2021, in Eugene, Oregon. | Source: Getty Images
Her relentless dedication was clear in her training routine at Montverde Academy in central Florida. Sha’Carri joined her teammates on the pristine track for practice sessions that ran from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine.
Central to her strength and perseverance was her grandmother, a tough woman who also made the track star tough.
Her grandmother’s unwavering support and wisdom were key in shaping her resilience. When times were tough, her grandmother’s straightforward advice was, “Don’t start nothing and don’t finish it. You start, you finish. Whatever happens, you keep going, you hear?”
This influence was touchingly displayed in a viral moment when Sha’Carri sprinted up the stands to embrace her grandmother, celebrating one of her performances.
Sha’Carri wholeheartedly agreed with her grandmother’s words, saying that she owed everything to the strong, wise Black woman who raised her. While others also helped her along the way, her grandmother laid the foundation for her success.
Being raised by a strong Black woman led Sha’Carri to embrace her identity as well. “I would say that’s where I got my confidence from. Just the fact of being in a community, being from South Dallas, that is predominantly Black,” Sha’Carri shared.
“I’m going to stand in who I am at the end of the day. I’m not going to change that,” she revealed. However, being an inspiring figure for Black women across the nation and the globe was not an easy task.
Sha’Carri pointed out the double standards often faced by Black women, noting that behaviors considered sassy or aggressive in Black women might be seen differently if done by others.
“One of the most powerful Black men said it, but the most disrespected person in the United States is [the] Black woman,” Sha’Carri added. However, she remained grateful for her heritage.
From her early days in Dallas to breaking records on the world stage, Sha’Carri Richardson has consistently shown her dedication to track and field. Her vibrant style and proud embrace of her Black identity, along with the unwavering support of her grandmother, continue to inspire and empower.