Olympic sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson has publicly addressed a recent incident involving her boyfriend, fellow track star Christian Coleman, following her arrest at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on July 27. The arrest stemmed from a physical altercation in which Richardson allegedly pushed Coleman multiple times, an event captured on airport surveillance footage. Coleman declined to press charges and stated he did not wish to be considered a victim.
On August 12, Richardson shared a heartfelt apology via Instagram Stories, acknowledging her past trauma and its impact on her behavior. She wrote:
“I apologize to Christian. He came into my life and gave me more than a relationship but a greater understanding of unconditional love from what I’ve experienced in my past. Due to my past trauma and pain, I was blind and blocked off to not only receive it but give it. I love him and to him I can’t apologize enough. My apology should be just as loud as my actions, honestly louder. To Christian I love you and I am so sorry.”
Richardson also posted a video expressing her commitment to self-reflection and personal growth, stating she is seeking help to better understand herself and her actions. She emphasized accountability and thanked her supporters for holding her to a higher standard.
Coleman, speaking at the U.S. Track and Field Championships, expressed support for Richardson, saying:
“She has things that she needs to work on for herself, of course. So do I, so do you, so does everybody. But I’m the type of guy who’s in the business of extending grace, and mercy and love.”
Both athletes competed at the championships shortly after the incident. Richardson missed qualifying for the 200-meter final by one-hundredth of a second but retains a bye in the 100-meter event as the reigning world champion.