Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has now experienced it all. Just a couple of years back, the Jamaican was at the forefront of the limelight. Breaking world records and accomplishing world leads, Fraser-Pryce was touted as the next big thing in track and field. Unfortunately, things slowly started to go haywire from there on. The Jamaican star was cited as one of the favorites to win the gold during the Paris Olympics. Her rivalry with Sha’Carri Richardson was hyped a lot. But alas! Fraser-Pryce pulled out of the 100m, sending shockwaves throughout the track realm. And now, with her comeback impending, there are questions about her form. But a US track legend is jumping to defend her. 

Justin Gatlin thinks that Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is gearing up for a big return. Now, after taking significant time away from the sport, Fraser-Pryce stated that she will be returning to the tracks this year. Unfortunately, her performance in Kingston has made fans question her decision. Competing at the Velocity Fest 17, Fraser-Pryce ran 100m in 10.94s.

Now then, this timing might have won her the first position, but the fans remained skeptical about the same. But not Justin Gatlin! Speaking on the Ready Set Go podcast, Gatlin stated that veterans like Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce usually do not go all-out initially. Gatlin also opined that for them, it is all about the perfect timing. When the time is right, athletes like Fraser-Pryce bring out the best within themselves.

Defending the Jamaican’s slow start, Gatlin stated, “To your point, what you just said is exactly what I say about Shelly. When people were like, oh, she ran a windy 10.98; that’s like 11 something.” The US track legend also pointed out that he will always go for experience over talent. “I said, I don’t care if it was a 10.0 behind her. Listen, I’m going to go with experience over talent any day. We’ve seen some of the most talented people fold when the moment was amongst them,” Gatlin further explained.

 Finally, concluding his statement, the American sprinter opined that Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce will surely make a comeback. And that might come running for her team, or when she comes out to establish her legacy in the Worlds. Meanwhile, this was not the first time Gatlin supported Shelly-Ann.

Justin Gatlin unabashedly sent a stern warning to Fraser-Pryce’s rivals

In the world of track and field, where youth often dominates headlines, one voice is reminding everyone not to overlook the seasoned veteran. That voice? None other than American sprint legend Justin Gatlin. With a sharp tone and sharper insight, Gatlin has issued a clear warning to the field. Underestimate “Mommy Rocket” at your peril.

Reacting to Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s blistering 10.94 opener at Velocity Fest 17, Gatlin didn’t mince words. Gatlin stated, “Yo girl officially opened up your season. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Mommy Rocket, opened up with a 10.94. Plus three winds, but a 10.94.” While the wind may have added a boost, Gatlin pointed beyond numbers.

In Gatlin’s own words, Shelly-Ann’s “great start, worked hard, finished the race strong” was what impressed him the most. For Gatlin, it was not just a good run. Rather, it was a clear signal of intent. And when it comes to championships, Gatlin’s stance is unwavering. “She can run a hundred races before championships or one race before championships, and she is going to be ready for that championship. She is going to be on that podium,” he added.

Experience, composure, and relentless consistency — Gatlin sees them all in Fraser-Pryce. And now, so should her rivals.