Sha’Carri Richardson, the Olympic 100m silver medallist, recently revealed that she excels at something other than sprinting: talking fast. In a “Get to Know Me” segment with BBC Sport, the American sprinter shared insights about herself that many might not know. When asked about another thing she’s quick at besides running, Richardson confessed that she often speaks so quickly that people sometimes ask her to repeat herself.
At just 24 years old, Richardson is currently the fastest woman in the world this year, thanks to her impressive performance at the U.S. Olympic trials, where she clocked a world-leading time of 10.71 seconds. This remarkable time secured her victory ahead of fellow athletes Melissa Jefferson and Twanisha Terry, who finished second and third, respectively.
Richardson also shared that she appreciates when people compliment her in a particular way, which she didn’t specify in detail but hinted that it’s the kind of compliment that would spark an immediate conversation with her. Her friendly nature extends beyond the track, where she likes to keep things light-hearted and jovial before a race, a stark contrast to the tense and serious demeanor of many other athletes.
The reigning world champion also discussed how she often draws attention with her distinctive nails when walking down the street. Richardson has become known for her bold, eye-catching nail designs, which have become a part of her signature look. Despite the attention she garners, she enjoys making people around her feel comfortable. She mentioned that when people meet her, they often appear nervous, but she reassures them by reminding them that she is just as human as anyone else.
Richardson’s personality shines through in how she interacts with others, whether on or off the track. She strives to break down barriers of nervousness and create a relaxed atmosphere, showing that she is not just a world-class athlete but also someone who values making genuine connections with others.
Her recent success at the Diamond League event in Lausanne, where top Olympic champions like Emmanuel Wanyonyi, Armand Duplantis, Letsile Tebogo, and Mary Moraa also competed, further cements her status as a top-tier athlete. The event showcased incredible performances, highlighting the extraordinary abilities of some of the world’s best athletes. Richardson’s charm, both on and off the track, continues to make her a standout figure in the world of athletics.
