The 2025 sprinting season is poised to be an exciting chapter in women’s athletics, as athletes prepare to challenge the limits of speed and rewrite history. A central question on everyone’s mind is whether this will be the year that someone breaks Florence Griffith-Joyner’s iconic 100m world record of 10.49 seconds, set in 1988. With a dynamic mix of rising stars and seasoned veterans, the stage is set for a captivating battle.
The current rankings of the fastest women in history are a testament to decades of remarkable athleticism. Griffith-Joyner still reigns supreme with her untouchable world record. Elaine Thompson-Herah, the fastest woman alive, comes close with her 10.54 seconds performance at the 2021 Prefontaine Classic. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, a ten-time world champion, follows with a time of 10.60 seconds, clocked at a Diamond League meet in Lausanne. Carmelita Jeter, a retired American sprinter, holds the fourth spot with her 10.64 seconds run in Shanghai, while Marion Jones rounds out the top five with her 10.65 seconds from the 1998 IAAF World Cup.
The rankings also feature contemporary stars like Shericka Jackson and Sha’Carri Richardson, both of whom have clocked 10.65 seconds in recent years. African sprinting legend Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith, Olympic champion Julien Alfred, and France’s Christine Arron complete the list of the top 10 fastest women, each with times under 10.73 seconds.
As the 2025 season begins, the landscape of women’s sprinting appears primed for change. Rising stars such as Julien Alfred, Tia Clayton, Brianna Lyston, Alana Reid, and Jayla Jamison are eager to leave their mark on the sport. These young athletes represent a fearless new generation, ready to challenge the established order. Alfred, in particular, has already made waves by dethroning Richardson at the Paris Olympic Games.
On the other side of the spectrum are the veterans, who remain formidable despite being in the later stages of their careers. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Shericka Jackson, Elaine Thompson-Herah, and Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith continue to inspire with their dedication and skill. These athletes, with their wealth of experience, are determined to stay relevant and maintain their dominance in the face of rising competition.
Beyond the athletes, advancements in technology are shaping the future of sprinting. Innovations in track surfaces and footwear are pushing the boundaries of human performance, enabling athletes to achieve faster times and set new records. These developments, combined with the intense competition among sprinters, make the 2025 season one to watch.
The upcoming season promises to be a pivotal year in the history of women’s sprinting. As athletes strive to cement their legacies or make their debut on the global stage, fans can expect thrilling races and unforgettable moments. Whether the world record will finally fall or new names will rise to dominate the rankings remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the 2025 season will be a celebration of speed, determination, and excellence.
