Reigning 100 metres world champion Sha’Carri Richardson remains one of the most influential figures in modern sprinting, her legacy anchored by an extraordinary under-20 record that continues to inspire. At just 19 years old in 2019, Richardson clocked a blistering 10.75 seconds in the 100m with a favourable +1.6 m/s tailwind a performance that instantly placed her among the fastest women in history at such a young age.
Richardson’s confidence, competitive spirit, and ability to deliver under pressure have made her a benchmark for the next generation. She has openly stated her determination to maintain her dominance on the track, eyeing continued success at upcoming World Championships and looking ahead to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Representing Team USA remains a deep source of pride for her, symbolising resilience, heritage, and the breaking down of barriers for future athletes.
On the European stage, 15-year-old Kelly Doualla has recently stepped into the spotlight, winning the 100m final at the European Under-20 Athletics Championships with a time of 11.22 seconds. While her performance was impressive for her age, the time still places her far from the extraordinary benchmark set by Richardson. Historically, 43 American sprinters have recorded faster times before turning 20, with Tamari Davis holding the second-fastest American under-20 mark at 10.83 seconds in 2022.
Nevertheless, Doualla’s achievement signals the emergence of a promising talent. With years of development and training ahead, she has the potential to close the gap between her performances and those of the sport’s elite. The young sprinter has expressed admiration for global sprint icons, including Richardson, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and fellow Italian star Filippo Tortu, drawing inspiration from their achievements and determination.
For now, Richardson’s 10.75 remains a towering challenge a record that has resisted all attempts for over half a decade. As the sport evolves, the question is not only whether Doualla or her peers can eventually match it, but how the competition will push Richardson to maintain her own peak form.
With the road to Los Angeles 2028 in sight, the sprinting world is set for a thrilling blend of established champions and hungry newcomers. Whether in the 100m dash, the 200m, or the 4x100m relay, the battles ahead promise to captivate fans and further define the sport’s next golden era.
