It was Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s last professional track race after a decades-long career. And a lot could have thrown her off track before she even stepped onto the line. But when she lined up for the third heat of the women’s 100m on June 26, she was all smiles. From the emotional weight of the moment, to the near-empty stands at the National Stadium, and the real chance she might not make the national team in her final appearance, it was far from an ideal setup. On top of that, she’d only raced the 100m twice this season and had cut her last season short due to injury. All of it could’ve worked against her. But on Thursday, none of it mattered — nothing was going to stop her.

On Thursday, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce stepped into the stadium with purpose — and a message boldly printed across her T-shirt: “EVERYONE WATCHES WOMEN’S SPORTS.” It wasn’t just a statement. It was a truth she’s lived and championed for decades. But there was something different. Her wig, bursting with vibrant colors, mirrored the fire and flair she’s always brought to the track. She flashed her signature smile, waving to the scattered but devoted fans who rose to their feet just for her. Then came the moment that mattered. One final time, she crouched into position. The stadium quieted. All eyes were on her. And just like that, history was about to sprint down the track.

The gun fired, and Shelly-Ann exploded out of the blocks, leaving the crowd in awe. From the very first stride, she held her lead over the rest of the field and powered through to the finish in 11.33 seconds, despite a strong headwind (-2.1 m/s). It was the fifth-fastest time heading into Friday’s semifinals and final. Behind her, Carleta Bernard claimed second place with a time of 11.47 seconds, just edging out Kemba Nelson, who clocked 11.48.

Before the race, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce spoke candidly at a Nike event at the AC Hotel. “In the next two days, it will be my final time gracing the National Stadium,” she said. “Honestly, it’s one of those moments that I’m looking forward to… because I have absolutely nothing to lose and all to gain.” And on Thursday, she meant every word. She soaked it all in — the atmosphere, the cheers, the emotions. It wasn’t just about the race. It was about the moment, the memories, and the joy of doing what she loves one last time on home soil. But now, the question is: What’s next? Has Shelly-Ann’s quest been fulfilled? 

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is close to her goal 

A podium finish at the Jamaican Nationals isn’t just about medals — it opens doors. It can secure a spot on Team Jamaica for the biggest stage of all. The JAAA has confirmed that World Athletics officially recognized the June 26–29 National Junior and Senior Championships as a key qualifier for the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, set for September 13–21. That means performances here count, not just in rankings, but in shaping who gets to represent the country on the global stage. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is very much on that path now.

After cruising through her opening heat, the five-time world champion is set to line up again on Friday, facing fierce competition from Tia Clayton, Krystal Sloley, Natasha Morrison, and Shenese Walker in Heat 2. A top-three finish would almost certainly punch her ticket to Tokyo. But the real question lingers — will Tokyo be her final race?

There’s been no official word yet. What we do know is this: Shelly-Ann’s goodbye to the sport isn’t about slowing down — it’s about showing up where it matters most. “It is important to show up for my son [Zyon] and that I show up as I am,” she told Olympics.com. Whether or not Tokyo becomes her grand finale, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s motivation now is deeper than medals. It’s personal. It’s purpose-driven. And it’s every bit as powerful as the legacy she’s already cemented.