Here are the 6 cool facts that you probably did not know about Sha’Carri Richardson.
Sha’Carri Richardson has taken the track and field world by storm with her electrifying speed, bold personality, and inspiring comeback stories.
While most fans know her as the 2023 World 100m Champion and one of the fastest women alive, there are some intriguing facts about her that may surprise you.
Pulse Sports brings you six cool things you probably didn’t know about Sha’Carri Richardson.
1. Sha’Carri Richardson broke two U20 World Records in one day
In 2019, Richardson stunned the track and field world by setting two U20 world records in a single day at the NCAA Division I Outdoor Championships.
She first blazed through the 100 meters in 10.75 seconds, breaking Marlies Göhr’s 42-year-old record.
Just hours later, despite finishing second in the 200 meters, her time of 22.17 seconds still surpassed Allyson Felix’s long-standing mark from the 2004 Athens Olympics. This incredible feat announced her arrival as a rising sprint sensation.
2. Sha’Carri Richardson identifies as bisexual
Richardson proudly embraces her bisexuality and has been open about her identity. After winning the 100 meters at the Tokyo Olympic Trials, she dedicated the moment to her girlfriend, crediting her for choosing her vibrant hair color.
The Dallas native also confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that her family is aware of her sexuality and even shared a lighthearted tweet from her girlfriend about their love for fried food in Texas.
3. Sha’Carri Richardson missed the Tokyo Olympics
Richardson was set to be one of the biggest stars of the Tokyo Olympics, but a failed drug test for marijuana resulted in a 30-day suspension, disqualifying her from the U.S. Olympic team selection.
She later revealed that she had used marijuana as a coping mechanism after learning about the sudden passing of her biological mother. Despite the setback, she took full responsibility for the violation and vowed to come back stronger. Her resilience was evident when she returned to claim the world title in 2023.
4. Sha’Carri Richardson’s grandmother and aunt raised her
6 cool facts you did not know about Sha’Carri Richardson
After her biological mother left when she was young, Richardson was primarily raised by her grandmother, Betty Harp, and her aunt.
Though she struggled with the emotional challenges of her mother’s absence, their unwavering support helped shape her confidence and resilience.
Richardson has frequently expressed her gratitude to her grandmother, dedicating key moments in her career to her influence and love.
5. Sha’Carri Richardson has a track in South Dallas named after Her
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Richardson’s hometown honored her legacy by naming a track after her at Dallas ISD’s Kincaide Stadium. Returning home as a two-time Olympic medalist, she officially unveiled the “Sha’Carri Richardson Track” in front of an excited crowd.
The stadium also features a plaque with her inspiring quote: “I’m doing it for everyone who looks like me.” The eight-time Texas state champion has never forgotten her roots and remains dedicated to inspiring young athletes from Dallas.
6. Sha’Carri Richardson is only 5 Feet 1 inch tall
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Sha’Carri Richardson (C) is noticeably shorter than Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce who stands at 5’2”
Despite being one of the fastest women in the world, Richardson stands at just 5 feet 1 inch tall. While many elite sprinters have long strides, she proves that raw power and impeccable technique matter more than height.
Her explosive acceleration and fearless racing style continue to make her a dominant force on the track.
Sha’Carri Richardson is more than just a sprinter; she’s a cultural icon redefining what it means to be an athlete in the modern era.
With her unapologetic confidence, incredible talent, and fearless approach to competition, she continues to capture the world’s attention. Whether you’re a die-hard track fan or a casual observer, one thing is certain—Sha’Carri Richardson is just getting started!
