Richardson makes it to the Olympics with the fastest 100 meters of the year

OREGON, United States, June 23 – Sha’Carri Richardson secured her place at this summer’s Games in Paris by winning the women’s 100 meters at the US Olympic Trials.

The 24-year-old world champion took victory in 10.71 seconds, which is the fastest time in the world this year, qualifying her for her first Olympic Games.

Richardson won the 100 meters at the U.S. Olympic Trials three years ago but did not compete in the Tokyo Games after testing positive for marijuana.

“I feel honored,” Richardson said. “I feel like every chapter I have experienced in my life has designed and prepared me for this moment.

“I can’t wait to go to Paris and represent there.”

Slowly out of the blocks, Richardson accelerated to take the lead about 50 meters before surging to victory, with Melissa Jefferson second in 10.80 and Twanisha Terry third in 10.89. All three women will race for Team USA in Paris.

After crossing the finish line in a world-leading time, Richardson ran to hug her grandmother who was watching from the stands at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.

“Over the past three years I have grown – just (a) better understanding of myself, a deeper respect and appreciation for my gift that I have in the sport, and as well as my responsibility to the people who believe and support me, Richardson said .

“I feel like all of these components have helped me grow.”

Richardson won gold at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest with a championship record of 10.65, claiming her first major title.

She hopes to add Olympic gold to that victory, but she has not yet set a target time that she wants to achieve in Paris.

“I don’t impose any time on myself, I just know that if I execute and run the race that I have trained (and) prepared for, the time will add up,” she said.

Elsewhere at the U.S. Olympic Trials, Ryan Crouser claimed victory in the men’s shot put with a throw of 22.84 meters, while Jasmine Moore won the women’s triple jump with her final effort of 14.26 meters.