Source: Patrick Smith / Getty Sha'Carri Richardson
WI love a good redemption story. Three years after losing a spot on the U.S. Olympic track and field team due to antiquated doping rules related to the use of marijuana, Sha'Carri Richardson will get another chance to represent Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Even after a poor start, Richardson knew she had the fight in the bag, finishing her race with a resounding victory. Putting an exclamation point on her “I'm No Back, I'm Better” tour with an impressive 10.71-second 100-meter sprint during the U.S. track trials over the weekend.
Her performance on Saturday cemented her as the fastest woman on the planet. Richardson was also 0.09 seconds ahead of training partner Melissa Jefferson, the 2022 US champion.
After her win, Richardson spoke about her performance, saying, “I'm honored,” Richardson said. “I feel like every chapter I've been through in my life has prepared me for this moment.”
After easily punching her ticket to the Summer Olympics, an emotional Richardson got down on one knee. He also talked about that moment.
“The feeling was just joy because of the hard work I put in, not only physically on the track, but mentally and emotionally to develop into the mature young lady I am today,” Richardson said.
She also entered the stands to hug her family in an emotional moment.
A Tale of Redemption For Sha'Carri Richardson
Richardson's redemption was a joy to watch. Just three years ago, we saw her dominate the same race, only to see her lose her chance to compete on the world stage due to a positive test for marijuana.
The result revealed that Richardson was also struggling with depression while shining a spotlight on the Anti-Doping Agency's anti-doping rulebook.
Salute to Sha'Carri.
You can see the reactions to her impressive appearance in the gallery below.