Sha’Carri Richardson has been making waves in track and field with her unmatched speed and fearless attitude. Known for her resilience, she took home gold in the 100 meters at the World Championships. Her achievement was a powerful statement, especially after being disqualified from the Tokyo Olympics following a positive test for cannabis in 2021. Rather than let that moment define her, Richardson returned with a renewed focus and determination, solidifying her place on the global stage. Beyond her athletic achievements, the Gold Medal Olympian’s vibrant personality shines through her ever-changing hair and long acrylic nails. Whether she’s sporting fiery red curls or neon green braids, she ensures all eyes are on her while dominating the track. Her bold style and unapologetic confidence have made her a standout athlete and cultural icon, redefining what it means to be a champion. Here are some interesting facts you should know about Richardson.

1. She broke two U20 records in one day

In 2019, she set two U20 world records in a single day at the NCAA Division I Outdoor Championships. Richardson started by winning the 100 meters with a time of 10.75 seconds, shattering Marlies Göhr’s 42-year-old record. Then, despite a close second-place finish in the 200 meters, her time of 22.17 seconds surpassed Allyson Felix’s mark from the 2004 Athens Olympics. This performance simultaneously showcased her raw talent and signaled the arrival of a new woman to watch in track and field.

2. She is Texas-bred

Richardson first made waves as a standout sprinter at David W. Carter High School in Dallas, Texas. There, the world began to see her exceptional speed and competitive drive, setting the stage for her future success. Growing up in a state known for producing top-tier athletes, she quickly became a rising star, carrying her Texas pride on her global ascent. Her Southern roots continue to shape her bold and unapologetic presence on and off the track.

3. She studied at Louisiana State University for one year before going pro

In 2018, the queen of speed made an immediate impact as one of Louisiana State University’s top track stars. She dropped the audience’s jaws at the 2019 NCAA Outdoor Championships with the second-best one-day double ever recorded by a female athlete. After just one year with the LSU Tigers, Richardson made the leap to the professional circuit in 2019, marking the beginning of her impressive career.

4. Flo-Jo is her inspiration to bring Black girl magic to the track

The famed athlete looks to Florence Griffith Joyner as the key inspiration in her approach to track and field. Flo-Jo’s signature long nails and eye-catching hairstyles set a new precedent for combining athletic skill with personal style. Richardson has embraced this legacy, flaunting her iconic long acrylic nails and bold hair choices during competitions. By channeling Flo-Jo’s trailblazing spirit, the decorated sprinter continues to bring a touch of Black girl magic and individuality to the track.

The track at John Kincaide Stadium in South Dallas, where Richardson first made her mark, has been renamed the Sha’Carri Richardson Track. The honor followed a unanimous decision by the Dallas Independent School District Board of Trustees in November 2023. Additionally, the City of Dallas designated Nov. 10 as Sha’Carri Richardson Day to celebrate her achievements and roots in the community where her journey began.

6. Her grandmother and aunt raised her

After her biological mother left when she was a young child, Richardson’s grandparents stepped in as her primary caregivers. Despite their loving support, the young talent grappled with the emotional challenges of her mother’s absence, including self-doubt and a fear of abandonment. However, her aunt and grandmother’s steadfast reassurance and presence played a crucial role in helping her overcome these struggles. They helped shift Richardson’s mindset towards confidence and resilience.

7. She is a five-time State Champion

The Olympic gold medalist graduated from Carter High School in 2018 as a track star, securing a total of five individual state championships – three titles in the 100 meters and two in the 200 meters. In addition to her individual successes, she also earned two gold medals in the 4×100 relay and contributed to two team titles with the school. Her exceptional performance earned her the title of The Dallas Morning News’ Girls Track Athlete of the Year in 2017.