Every four years, the Summer Olympic Games offer moments that become ingrained in our collective memory, showcasing superhuman achievements that are captured in iconic images. From Florence Griffith Joyner’s (Flo-Jo) jubilant celebration of her world records in the 100m and 200m sprints at the 1988 Seoul Olympics to Vince Carter’s legendary dunk over a seven-footer from Team France at the Sydney 2000 Games, and Usain Bolt’s unforgettable grin as he sprinted ahead of his competitors in Rio 2016—these are the snapshots that transcend time. Simone Biles has her own catalog of unforgettable images, and now, Sha’Carri Richardson has added her own to this illustrious gallery. During the 2024 Paris Olympics, Richardson was captured in a moment that will forever symbolize her resilience and determination: sprinting to the finish line in the 4x100m relay for Team USA, with her gaze fixed over her right shoulder, locking eyes with victory.
In a conversation over Zoom with Unbothered, Richardson, speaking from the P&G Pavilion in Paris with OLAY, jokes about possibly hanging that photo in her house. When it’s suggested that the image deserves a place in the Louvre, she laughs and notes how close she is to the famous museum. But the “Sha’Carri Stare” isn’t the only aspect of Richardson’s presence that could be immortalized. Like her predecessors Flo-Jo and Gail Devers, Richardson is not only celebrated for her speed on the track but also for her striking style—her nails, hair, and jewelry leave fans in awe every time she competes. This combination of athleticism and aesthetic flair has naturally led to endorsement deals, with Richardson’s partnership with OLAY’s new Cleansing Melts standing out as a significant collaboration. The partnership is especially meaningful to Richardson as it connects to her grandmother, whom she lovingly calls “Big Momma.” Richardson was raised on OLAY products by her grandmother, making this endorsement a tribute to her roots and a reminder to prioritize self-care amidst the intense demands of being an Olympian.
Richardson arrived at the 2024 Games under immense pressure. After the controversy surrounding her exclusion from the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, expectations were high for the 24-year-old to deliver the medals that many believed were within her reach three years ago. And deliver she did. Securing a silver medal in the 100m and anchoring Team USA to victory in the 4x100m relay, Richardson proved her doubters wrong. But beyond her athletic achievements, Richardson has also become a viral sensation, almost as famous for her on-track exploits as for her off-track personality. From her now-famous mid-sprint side-eye to fixing her wig during a post-race interview, Richardson’s charisma has shone through during the games. On the Zoom call, her vibrant personality was palpable—complete with her Dallas accent, Olympic medal around her neck, and impeccably styled hair. She was relaxed, confident, and fully aware that this moment, while monumental, is just the beginning of what she plans to achieve.
In the interview, Richardson delves into her self-care and beauty routine during the Olympics, discussing how she maintained her physical and mental well-being amidst the competition. She also shares the significance of her viral moments and reveals which teammate’s voice propelled her to cross the finish line in first place during the relay.
Growing up with her grandmother, Richardson was no stranger to OLAY products. In her South Dallas home, OLAY was a cherished item, something her grandmother, whom she affectionately calls Big Momma, guarded closely. Even now, Richardson finds comfort in using OLAY products, especially during the demanding days of the Olympics. She describes how using the OLAY Cleansing Melts helps her connect with her inner child and decompress after the intensity of competition. Whether she’s battling the elements on the track—be it heat, wind, or rain—her skincare routine has remained a consistent source of comfort and self-care. Richardson humorously notes that she’s been in Paris for over 20 days, and if nothing else, her skincare routine has remained steadfast.
For Richardson, self-care goes beyond physical maintenance; it’s about focusing on what she can control amidst the chaos of life as an elite athlete. Her skincare routine, her diet, and the energy she puts into her pursuits are all aspects she can manage, providing her with a sense of stability. Regardless of the outcome of her races or the challenges she faces, Richardson takes solace in the moments when she’s cleansing her face, allowing herself to just be. As an athlete, she emphasizes the importance of having a routine, noting that it brings her a sense of calm. For her, having a consistent skincare routine, especially during the intense rounds of competition, has been crucial in helping her decompress and stay centered.
Richardson also reflects on the beauty lessons passed down to her by her grandmother and mother. They instilled in her the belief that looking good can positively impact how one feels and performs. She credits the women in her family for teaching her the importance of presentation and self-care. While some might think her striking appearance is all about makeup, Richardson proudly states that it’s more about good genetics, a great spirit, and quality products that enhance her natural beauty without stripping it away. Her nails, another signature part of her look, are a testament to the influence of the women in her family who have always prioritized presenting themselves well.
Richardson’s team, which she deeply trusts, plays a significant role in bringing her unique style to life. She speaks highly of the bond she shares with them, noting that they understand her vision and work to reflect her personality through their creativity. When she’s preparing for a race and sees her nails, she feels a deep connection to herself, knowing that her team has captured her essence. This trust and alignment have kept her team by her side for years, and she appreciates that they understand her need to stand out.
In the grand tapestry of Olympic history, Sha’Carri Richardson is weaving her own narrative—one that combines extraordinary athleticism with unapologetic self-expression. Her viral moments, her striking beauty, and her unshakable confidence are all part of what makes her a standout star. As she continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible on the track, she’s also redefining what it means to be a modern-day Olympian, one who values self-care, embraces her individuality, and understands the power of her image. Whether or not her iconic Olympic moment ends up in the Louvre, it’s clear that Sha’Carri Richardson is already a masterpiece in her own right.
