World champion Sha’Carri Richardson has earned her Olympic redemption after recording the fastest time of the year in the 100-metre sprint.
Richardson took the lead midway through the race before accelerating through the final metres to claim victory with a world-leading time of 10.71.
The victory was the 24-year-old’s second qualification in the 100-metre race at the US Olympic trials. However, despite winning the race at Olympic qualifiers three years ago, her result was erased due to a positive test result for marijuana.
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Richardson, who was a gold medal prospect for the 100m race in Tokyo, served a 30-day suspension following the findings.
Sha’Carri Richardson with her gold medal. Getty
“I feel honoured,” Richardson said after the trial race.
“I feel every chapter I’ve been through in my life designed and prepared me for this moment.
Training partners Melissa Jefferson and Twanisha Terry will join the star in Paris, with Jefferson taking second in 10.80 and Terry third in 10.89.
The trio were seen celebrating together after the race before Richardson ran to hug her grandmother who watched on from the stands.
“The emotion was just joy because of the hard work I put in, not just physically on the track, but mentally and emotionally to grow into the mature young lady I am today,” she said.
“In the past three years I’ve grown, 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 that believe and support me.
“I don’t put a time on myself, I just know that if I execute and run the race that I’ve trained [and] prepared for, that the time comes with it.
Sha’Carri Richardson crosses the finish line. Getty
“I feel like all of those components have helped me grow.
“I cannot wait to go to Paris and represent.”
Richardson won gold at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, claiming her first major title with a championship record of 10.65.
She is also expected to compete in the 200-metre race later this week, with heats scheduled to take place on Friday (AEST).