“She’s an amazing athlete. I grew up watching her.” That’s how Sha’Carri Richardson describes her childhood hero, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. Despite their rivalry on the track, Richardson never hesitates to acknowledge her inspiration. “It was going to take my best to come forward and be able to compete, knowing that she’s been doing this” she said. The respect Richardson holds for her opponent-turned-inspiration is undeniable. Yet, some fans on the internet think otherwise.

In a press conference ahead of the Diamond League meet in Brussels on August 22, 2025, Melissa Jefferson-Wooden praised Fraser-Pryce for her consistency and for the way she has managed to keep performing at a high level despite all the challenges. “Just seeing her dominate the way that she did, it did nothing but motivate me to be at least half of the person or half of the woman that she has been for our sport, and especially in the sprints.”

Jefferson-Wooden further added “And so, there have been numerous and plenty of times where I’ll just be at home, sitting and watching old videos of women in my field competing year after year. And to see Shelly-Ann on top for so long, like she said, is very, very inspiring for me, but also very just—it’s just like wow, in a sense.”

Just moments before the showdown, Melissa’s words certainly touched the hearts of track fans. These words were later shared on social media, where one fan took to his X handle to indirectly accuse Richardson of showing false respect, writing: “If only the other one from her camp had this type of respect for the sport’s legends.”

However, accusing her of mistreating her inspiration is a bit far-fetched. And the fan’s words backfired as the track-and-field community defended Richardson instead of taking his side.

Fans Come in Support of Sha’Carri Richardson Amidst a False Attack Attempt

Disagreeing with the man, a fan expressed their anger, saying, “Did Sha’Carri not show Shelly respect? the selective amnesia yall have is inane! Sha’carri stated in front of Shelly that she grew up watching her and respects her! She even called her Ms. Shelly! How much more respect do you want her to give, especially as a competitor?” It should be noted that Richardson and Fraser-Pryce have faced each other on multiple occasions; however, they’ve always shared mutual respect for each other. In response to Richardson’s remarks, the Jamaican stated, “I think for me… stay true to who I am… perform and dominate. You still have a mutual respect for each other.”

Back in the 2023 World Championship, Richardson won the gold medal, while Shericka Jackson earned silver and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce claimed bronze. Sharing the podium with two Jamaicans, Richardson stated in an interview, “Not even just the Jamaicans. I feel like I’ve earned the respect for myself,” said Richardson. “That’s the biggest thing for me. Not just the world, but for Sha’Carri Richardson. I put that respect on me for me,” she expressed. Richardson showed nothing but love for the Jamaicans, and a fan believes it certainly reflects in her attitude.“Shacarrri showed nothing but love to the Jamaicans at the world championships.”

Furthermore, another social media user reminded the person about Richardson’s respect for the Jamaicans, “Wait Shacarri has only ever praised Shelly?? Watch the Budapest press conferences.” Moreover, another fan expressed,  “Stop focusing on the negative and give energy to the positive.” Last but not the least, a fan came forward to ask a question, “What did she do that was disrespectful? She always speaks of her with admiration and respect.”

Sha’Carri Richardson might have many problems, as some critics might point out, but not respecting the legends of the sport isn’t one of them. As the three of them are set to face each other once again at the Diamond League meet in Brussels, who do you expect to clinch the victory? How well do you think Richardson will be able to perform at the upcoming World Athletics Championship in Tokyo in her current state of mind? Let us know in the comments section below.