An unspecified injury delayed Sha’Carri Richardson’s preparations for the 2025 season, leading to a subdued start to her campaign. She opened in May at the Golden Grand Prix in Tokyo—the venue for the upcoming World Championships—placing fourth in 11.47 seconds. At the Prefontaine Classic in July, she finished ninth with a time of 11.19.
Despite these results, Richardson is confident heading into her world title defense. “I like to be a secret weapon,” she stated. “Right now, I’m just cruising under the radar, but when it’s time to hit, it’s going to be a bang.”
Although she holds an automatic bye into the World Championships as the defending champion, Richardson stressed the importance of competing in the national trials in Eugene. “I wanted to come out here and be a competitor,” she explained. “I’m not just relying on that bye. I wanted to show up and prove I’m a competitor no matter what happens.”
In Eugene, Richardson is set to attempt the 100m and 200m double, a feat also being pursued by sprinters Gabrielle Thomas and Melissa Jefferson-Wooden.
Reflecting on a challenging year, she said her focus is on consistent effort and letting her performance speak for itself. “The most I’ve learned about myself is to always show up, no matter what,” Richardson said. “Just always show up and leave what you want the world to see on the track.”
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