Reigning 100 meters world champion Sha’Carri Richardson has found herself in legal trouble after being arrested at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport for an alleged domestic violence incident involving her boyfriend, fellow sprinter Christian Coleman.
The 25-year-old was charged with fourth-degree domestic violence assault following a confrontation that reportedly escalated from a verbal disagreement to a physical altercation. Witnesses, including a police officer at the scene, say Richardson pushed Coleman multiple times, followed him as he attempted to walk away, and allegedly threw a pair of headphones at him. Coleman reportedly stumbled into a column after being shoved.
Security footage from the airport is said to support the officer’s version of events. Despite the confrontation, Coleman declined to press charges and told authorities he did not wish to be considered a victim.
Richardson was taken into custody late Sunday evening and booked at a correctional facility in Des Moines, Washington. She was released the following day, July 28.
The incident occurred just days before she was scheduled to compete at the 2025 USATF Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon—an important event for athletes hoping to qualify for the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo.
Despite the arrest, Richardson competed in the preliminary round of the 100-meter race on July 31, clocking 11.07 seconds to advance to the semifinals. However, she unexpectedly withdrew from her semifinal heat the following day and opted not to compete in the 200-meter event as well.
Her abrupt withdrawal has sparked speculation, but her position at the World Championships remains secure thanks to her automatic qualification earned by winning gold in the 100 meters at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest.
Richardson’s arrest marks a sharp contrast to the highs of her recent athletic success, including a successful summer that saw her claim silver in the 100 meters and contribute to Team USA’s gold medal win in the 4×100-meter relay.
Neither Richardson nor law enforcement officials have publicly commented on the incident. As of Friday evening, no further statements had been issued, and it remains unclear what impact this episode will have on her future appearances on the track.
