Sha’Carri Richardson, the reigning World 100m champion, is gearing up to defend her title in 2025. However, her journey to reclaiming her throne will not be easy, as a strong group of sprinters is set to challenge her dominance. These athletes, both established stars and rising talents, will make for fierce competition in the upcoming season.
One of the main contenders is Julien Alfred, the Olympic 100m gold medalist from Saint Lucia. Alfred made headlines when she defeated Richardson at the Paris 2024 Olympics, securing the gold while Richardson settled for silver. Alfred’s victory was a clear statement of her potential, and she is expected to continue her strong form in 2025. In addition to her 100m gold, Alfred also won silver in the 200m, a race Richardson didn’t qualify for at the Olympics. The two sprinters will meet again in 2025, with Richardson looking to avenge her loss.
Another formidable challenger is Gabby Thomas, the Olympic 200m champion. Thomas has proven herself as one of the best in the world over the distance, and she will be a significant threat to Richardson in the 200m in 2025. Thomas also triumphed over Richardson at the 2023 World Championships, further solidifying her credentials as one of the top sprinters. The rivalry between Thomas and Richardson will be a key highlight of the 2025 season, particularly in the 200m, where both athletes will be vying for supremacy.
Jamaican sprinter Shericka Jackson, the 200m World Champion, is another sprinter to watch. Although Jackson’s 2024 season was marred by injuries, she is expected to return to top form in 2025. Jackson holds the second-fastest time in history for the 200m, and she is determined to reclaim her status as the queen of the event. A renewed rivalry with Richardson is expected, especially in the 200m, where both athletes have proven to be top contenders.
Elaine Thompson-Herah, a former Olympic champion in both the 100m and 200m, also remains a significant threat. Thompson-Herah’s 2024 season was disrupted by injuries, but with a new coach and renewed energy, she is set to make a strong comeback in 2025. Her experience and pedigree in both the 100m and 200m make her a formidable opponent for Richardson.
American sprinter Brittany Brown, the Olympic 200m bronze medalist, is another key competitor. Brown had a standout season in 2024, including winning the Diamond League 200m title. She will be looking to continue her upward trajectory and challenge Richardson in both the 100m and 200m. Brown’s strong performances, particularly at the Olympics and Diamond League, demonstrate her ability to compete at the highest level.
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, a Jamaican sprint legend, is also a major contender. With ten world titles, including five 100m crowns, and three Olympic gold medals, Fraser-Pryce is one of the greatest sprinters in history. Though she has been quiet about her future plans, a return to competition in 2025 would be a major challenge for Richardson. The experience and skill of Fraser-Pryce would make her a force to reckon with.
Finally, Melissa Jefferson, Richardson’s training partner, is another sprinter who could pose a challenge. Jefferson finished behind Richardson in Paris, claiming the Olympic bronze in the 100m. As a 200m runner as well, Jefferson adds an extra layer of competition for Richardson in both events. Her strong performances in recent seasons suggest that she could be a serious contender in 2025.
With such a deep field of talented sprinters, Richardson’s path to defending her titles in 2025 will be anything but straightforward. The competition is fierce, and fans can expect some thrilling races as these athletes battle for supremacy on the track.
