Sha’Carri Richardson: Why the track star was completely snubbed out of legends’ top lists

Sha’Carri Richardson

Sha’Carri Richardson: Why the track star was completely snubbed out of legends’ top lists

Festus Chuma 11:18 - 23.12.2024

Track legends Rodney Green and Justin Gatlin omitted Sha’Carri Richardson from their top sprinters list, sparking heated discussions.

Obvious in her rise to fame and remarkable achievements, Sha’Carri Richardson has become a household name in track and field.

The American sprinter has redefined the sport with her speed, flair, and advocacy.

Yet, despite her incredible journey, she remains absent from the top-five female sprinter lists curated by track legends Rodney Green and Justin Gatlin.

This omission has sparked discussions about what it truly takes to be considered a legend in the sport.

Richardson’s comeback story is nothing short of inspirational.

After a major setback in 2021 when she was suspended for THC use and missed the Tokyo Olympics, many doubted if she could return to her former glory.

Struggling with the devastating loss of her mother, Richardson stepped away from the limelight.

However, she reemerged stronger than ever, earning a gold medal in the 100-meter dash at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest with a personal best of 10.65 seconds.

Reflecting on her triumph, Richardson declared, “I’m not back; I’m better.”

Despite this resurgence, Richardson’s accomplishments have yet to earn her recognition among the sport’s elite.

In a recent episode of Ready Set Go, Rodney Green and Justin Gatlin unveiled their top-five female sprinter lists.

Both named icons like Florence Griffith-Joyner, Allyson Felix, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Gail Devers and Elaine Thompson-Herah.

Richardson’s name was noticeably absent. Green highlighted the achievements of Felix, who has won 11 Olympic medals, and Gatlin lauded Thompson-Herah’s historic back-to-back Olympic doubles.

While Richardson has won two Olympic medals, her haul falls short compared to the legends mentioned.

However, Richardson’s influence goes far beyond medals. Known for her vibrant wigs, bold nails, and extravagant eyelashes, she has brought a new dimension to track and field.

Often compared to the legendary Flo-Jo, Richardson has embraced the philosophy of, “Dress good to look good. Look good to feel good. And it feels good to run fast.”

Despite facing harsh criticism early in her career, Richardson has turned her flamboyant style into an iconic statement, inspiring countless fans and athletes.

Her impact extends off the track as well. Richardson has been a vocal advocate for female athletes, addressing systemic challenges they face in the sport.

“I feel like that does a disservice to some of our women athletes—who may not be the biggest names or have the biggest contracts, but they still are people,” Richardson said in an interview with Essence.

She has shone a spotlight on issues like inadequate funding, limited media coverage, and the sexualization of female athletes. Richardson’s efforts have sparked important conversations about equality and respect in sports.

Richardson’s exclusion from the lists of Green and Gatlin has left many fans disappointed.

While her accolades may not yet match those of Felix or Fraser-Pryce, her influence and contributions to the sport are undeniable.

She has not only pushed boundaries with her performances but also championed representation, individuality, and change.

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