How Sha'Carri Richardson overcame fear of abandonement

World champion has often spoken about the village that has helped shape her into the person she is today.

At the heart of this support system are—whom she refers to as «Big Momma», and her aunt, Shay Richardson—whom she affectionately calls Mom.

This close-knit family has not only guided her athletic career but also played a crucial role in her personal growth and resilience.

Richardson’s biological mother has remained a largely unknown figure, having departed when Sha’Carri was a young child.

Sha'Carri Richardson has risen above the challenges to become one of the best American sprinters. Here is everything you need to know about her grandmother who has played a crucial role in Richardson's meteoric rise.

In her absence,stepped in as primary caregivers, creating a nurturing home for her.

However, despite their love and care, Richardson struggled deeply with feelings of abandonment and self-doubt, questioning her worth and place in the world.

She candidly shared these emotions during an April 2024 episode of recalling the difficult questions she grappled with.

“I always was asking myself, ‘What’s wrong with me? Why is it that you don’t want to be here?’ Like if my mother doesn’t want to be around me, then I was like, I’m pretty sure nobody wants to be around me,» she expressed.

Sha’Carri Richardson boldly criticised track legends for prioritising their gains over the future of young athletes, vowing to be the voice of change.

Throughout her formative years, Richardson found unwavering support in her aunt Shay.

Understanding Richardon’s fears, Shay made a heartfelt promise that changed her niece’s life forever.

These words of affirmation became a foundation of stability and comfort for Richardson, helping her to heal and grow into the confident athlete and person she is today.

, standing by her side through every victory and challenge.

Sha'Carri Richardson is one of the three Texas natives set to host the Met Gala.

Despite finding strength in her adoptive family, Richardson faced another emotional trial in 2020 when just a week before her historic victory at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials.

While the loss was painful, the love and encouragement of her family provided her with the resilience to continue pushing forward.

Today, Richardson is not only known for her blazing speed on the track but also for her inspiring personal story.