Sha’Carri Richardson Leads US Women to Relay Triumph; Men Cruise Ahead as Jamaica Exits

SAINT-DENIS, France — The U.S. women’s relay team faced a tense moment in the Olympic 4×100 qualifying race, but Sha’Carri Richardson dramatically secured their spot in the final. Her powerful anchor leg overcame a deficit against the German team, allowing the Americans to win their heat with a time of 41.94 seconds.

The race almost fell apart when Gabby Thomas executed a shaky baton exchange with Twanisha Terry. Receiving the baton three steps behind, Richardson managed to close the gap against Rebekka Haase of Germany, finishing .19 seconds ahead.

The U.S. men’s team also advanced easily despite a minor mishap. Their time of 37.47 seconds was enough to defeat South Africa by nearly half a second. Christian Coleman handled an awkward baton exchange with Fred Kerley, but the team still managed a first-place finish.

By contrast, Jamaica’s men stumbled, failing to make the final for the first time since 2004. A problematic first baton exchange and an early start by anchor Kishane Thompson led to their elimination. Jamaica’s women now carry the nation’s hope in the 4×100 relay, with the men’s failure highlighting a stark contrast from their dominant days during Usain Bolt’s era.

Significantly, two of the U.S.’s fastest sprinters, Noah Lyles and Kenny Bednarek, did not participate in the relay, focusing instead on the 200-meter final. Meanwhile, Jamaica’s top female sprinters, including Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Shericka Jackson, were absent from their relay lineup, impacting their performance as they finished third in their heat.

The races highlighted the unpredictability and drama inherent in relay events, where baton exchanges can make or break even the strongest teams. As the finals approach, all eyes will be on the U.S. women to see if Richardson’s heroics can lead them to gold.