Not Sha’Carri Richardson but Olympic Gold Medalist’s Training Partner Makes Major Grand Slam Track Announcement

Sha’Carri Richardson has remained silent about her participation in the women-only Athlos NYC track meet, created by Alexis Ohanian. This event has been eagerly anticipated, but Richardson has yet to confirm her involvement, especially after her defeat in the Diamond League final in Brussels. However, Melissa Jefferson, her training partner, has been more forthcoming. On September 19, the Grand Slam Track announced Jefferson as the second woman to join their short sprints category (100m/200m), alongside athletes like Fred Kerley, Kenny Bednarek, and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.

 

Jefferson expressed her excitement on social media, sharing that she felt “blessed” and ready to compete in the ambitious Grand Slam Track project, set to debut in 2025. Her enthusiastic post hinted at her readiness to embrace this new chapter in her career, following her strong performances in the 100m events and relay races, including helping the U.S. team secure a spot in the Paris Olympics.

 

Though Jefferson is all-in, Sha’Carri Richardson’s plans remain unclear. While Alexis Ohanian’s preview for the Athlos NYC meet showed both Richardson and Julian Alfred, there’s still no official word from Richardson herself about her participation in either event. With Jefferson and Richardson sharing a close bond and training together, some speculate that Jefferson’s decision to join the Grand Slam Track might influence Richardson’s future moves.

As Jefferson steps into the spotlight, fans are left wondering whether Richardson will follow suit or continue to focus on other competitions. The next few months will reveal if Richardson is ready to make her mark on these new, transformative track events.