Sha’Carri Richardson is being hailed as the new Usain Bolt, but the young American sprinter does not see it that way.
Richardson, who is just 21 years old, is having a fantastic year so far. In four races, heats and finals, she ran 10.72, 10.77 and 10.74. She ran with ease.
The question about being the next Bolt was put to her at Saturday’s (22 May) Gateshead Diamond League press conference.
“Well, I have not seen that, but when I do see that, I’m definitely going to still be shocked – even though I do these things and it’s my time,” she said.
She a,so ran 22.11 and 22.35 in the half-lap event. She is the 6th fastest woman of all time with her 10.72.
Only world record holder Florence Griffith-Joyner, Carmelita Jeter and Marion Jones have ever run faster as Americans. Jamaicans Fraser-Pryce and Thompson Herah, both with 10.70, are the only two non-American to run fastest than 10.72.
“I guess I’m as shocked as much as you guys (the media) when I step on the track and do the things that I do,” said the 2019 NCAA 100m champion.
She continued: “But to hear things like that (being the next Bolt) just shows that people see not only potential in me, but they see greatness in me.”
“Every time I step on the track, I am trying to do something I have not done before,” she said.
Richardson was favourite to win the US TRials in 2019 but finished eighth in the final.
“I just have to block it (8th place finish) out, remember my craft and every time I step on the track, execute in the best way I can. If I win, that’s the bonus.”
Richardson will face Jamaican world 100m champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce at the Gateshead Diamond League on Sunday (23 May).
Gateshead Diamond League Live Streaming with be on World Athletics’ YouTube channel
