Usain Bolt has paid a powerful and emotional tribute to fellow Jamaican sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce as she nears the end of her illustrious career. The eight-time Olympic champion admitted that watching Fraser-Pryce’s continued success has made him reflect on his own early retirement from the sport.
Fraser-Pryce, one of the most decorated sprinters in athletics history, recently competed for the final time on home soil at the Jamaican Championships. The event also served as trials for the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo, Japan. Despite intense competition, she secured a spot on the national team by finishing third behind Tina Clayton and Shericka Jackson.
Bolt, who was present in the stands to witness her final domestic race, spoke candidly about the bond he shares with Fraser-Pryce. Their journey began together on the global stage at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where they both won gold in the 100m. Since then, their names have become synonymous with Jamaican sprinting dominance.
Reflecting on Fraser-Pryce’s career, Bolt remarked that she has consistently kept Jamaica on the global athletics map. He acknowledged her tireless work ethic, medal-winning consistency, and remarkable longevity attributes that continued to shine even after his own retirement in 2017.
“She is as big a deal as I am,” Bolt said, adding that Fraser-Pryce’s achievements particularly being the first woman from Jamaica to win Olympic gold in the 100m cement her place among the sport’s greats. Her ability to remain at the top for over a decade, through personal and professional challenges, left a lasting impression on Bolt.
He humorously but honestly confessed, “I retired early…she showed that I should have stayed longer.” Yet, pride outweighed any regret. Bolt emphasized how inspiring it has been to witness her sustained excellence, calling her continued medal success after his departure from the track “tremendous.”
As Fraser-Pryce prepares for her final major championship appearance in Tokyo, Bolt expressed his desire to be there to support her in person. He hailed her not just as a champion but as a symbol of perseverance and excellence for the entire nation.
From their early days as junior athletes to becoming global icons, the legacy they built together has shaped the golden era of Jamaican sprinting. As Fraser-Pryce prepares to take her final bow, Bolt’s tribute stands as a moving reminder of her greatness and their shared legacy.
