After winning the 100m in Budapest in 2023 with 10.65 seconds, American spinner Sha’Carri Richardson is back in Paris, shouldering America’s hopes, striving to break the nearly thirty-year streak without Olympic gold in the women’s 100m. Her approach is far from ordinary.

Richardson, a remarkably talented and outgoing athlete, stars alongside Noah Lyles, another lightning-fast American with a bold personality who won three titles in Budapest (100m, 200m, and 4x100m).

As she nears her first Olympic appearance, new questions arise: Can she still outrun the fastest women on the planet? And can she withstand the unique pressures of the Olympics?

The 24-year-old favorite in the women’s Olympic 100 meters has been open about her journey toward becoming a more appreciative and mindful individual after her positive marijuana test at the 2021 U.S. Olympic trials introduced her to a wider audience.

During the past three years, which have included both her dramatic fall and inspiring comeback, Richardson has revealed little about her personal experiences. She has mentioned the death of her biological mother and the depression she endured afterward.

This combination of mystery, struggle, and eventual triumph has elevated Richardson’s status, leaving her enthusiastic and growing fan base wanting more. Many on social media are particularly interested in the hairstyles and nail designs she will showcase during her races.

Her story extends beyond that of a celebrity sprinter. As a young, famous Black woman, her suspension sparked debates about race, drug policies, anti-doping regulations, and an Olympic ecosystem still predominantly run and reported on by older, white men.

“It’s not my goal to be known,” Richardson said. “But I definitely don’t want to be known for just one thing. No one does. It’s important for me to be the best person I can be in all that matters to me, like family, community, and the work that I do.”

Richardson’s Engagement with the Media

This understanding came from two questions Richardson responded to for The Associated Press, as part of her Powerade sponsorship. Many of her recent interviews have involved similar brand-placement agreements.

On social media, Richardson has been transparent about her mental health struggles, including past thoughts of suicide during her teenage years, while also providing encouragement to others.

Sha’Carri Richardson laces up her spikes with ease, despite her long nails. By the track, she discusses cars with her training partners, joking, “I’m a Bentley. Fast, expensive, and elegant.” At the time Netflix filmed these scenes, the American sprinter had not yet claimed the 100m title at the Budapest World Championships in August 2023.

Nevertheless, the streaming giant included her in “Sprint,” a documentary series on athletics inspired by “Drive to Survive” in F1, with hopes of drawing new fans to the sport. Netflix released the six episodes on July 2, three weeks before the Games.

Reflecting on her media portrayal, Richardson remarked in the documentary: “It feels like the media makes a lot of noise about every move I make. You get what you give, and that’s just how it is with me.”

This year, her occasional face-to-face interactions with reporters, particularly at the U.S. Olympic trials where she won her second consecutive national title in June, have been less tense. Her remarks have centered on personal growth, accountability, and family.

“I think over the past few years, I’ve gained a better understanding of myself,” Richardson said. “I now have a greater respect and appreciation for my role in the sport and my responsibility to those who support and believe in me.”

Richardson close to her grandmother

Richardson came closest to addressing her childhood difficulties in a recent friendly interview with Vogue online, where she made it clear she would not discuss her biological mother or the drug test.

“Everything I am is thanks to that strong, wise Black woman,” she said, referring to her grandmother, Betty Harp, who raised her and is frequently seen at Richardson’s major races. “Everything. I’ve been lucky to receive support from others, but the foundation is all her.”

Richardson has plenty of time to evolve as both an athlete and a public figure, as many sprinters reach their peak in their late 20s.

The tough reality is that to sustain public interest in a sport that doesn’t make news outside of the Olympics, winning a gold medal is the most effective way to build a lasting legacy.

The Favorite

Everything points to Richardson being the frontrunner for the Olympic 100m final, set for August 3 at the Stade de France.

She posted a time of 10.71 seconds at the Olympic trials, the fastest in the world this year. One of her main rivals, Shericka Jackson from Jamaica, has raised concerns about her fitness for the Olympics after an injury during a recent tune-up race.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce of Jamaica, with four more Olympic appearances and eight additional Olympic medals compared to Richardson, brings extensive experience. But will her experience be enough to surpass Richardson’s exceptional speed in 2024?

“Being an athlete with talent and the spotlight on you can be tough,” said sprint legend Michael Johnson. “When you prove to yourself and the world that you can achieve it, it’s a huge relief that could pave the way for even greater accomplishments.”

The gold medal is still up for grabs, but in many ways, Richardson has already triumphed. Her image was everywhere in Eugene, Ore., thanks to her Nike deal, and she’s been a regular feature in NBC’s Olympic promotions.

While she may not be the Simone Biles of these Olympics, Richardson is set to become the most captivating figure once gymnastics wraps up.

“Sha’Carri has enchanted the world,” said Olympic gold medalist Sanya Richards-Ross. “Watching her grow into the face of sprinting has been remarkable.”

Richardson excelled in the 100 meters but finished fourth in the 200 meters, missing out on the sprint double. Nonetheless, her standout moment came in the 100 meters prelims, where she overcame a stumble and ran with an untied shoelace to win in 10.88 seconds.

Imperfect and still evolving, she remains the fastest and most intriguing racer.

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