Snubbed: Sha’Carri Richardson Excluded from Top American Award Nominees Because of Her Controversial Year
In a surprising and controversial move, sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson has been excluded from the list of nominees for one of the most prestigious American athletic honors this year. The exclusion comes despite Richardson’s impressive achievements on the track, raising questions about how performance, perception, and public image influence such high-profile award selections.
The prestigious award, which recognizes excellence in American track and field, is often viewed as the pinnacle of individual achievement in the sport. However, this year’s nominee list has sparked debate, as two other stars — Gabby Thomas and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone — dominate the shortlist while Richardson, a highly-publicized and often polarizing figure, is noticeably absent.
Richardson’s exclusion seems particularly jarring given her stellar performances during the 2024 season. The 24-year-old sprinter stunned the world with a series of remarkable victories, including a dominant win in the 100m at the USA Track & Field Championships and a near-record-breaking time in the 200m. Yet, despite her athletic prowess, Richardson’s reputation remains tainted by off-track controversies that seem to have played a role in her omission.
The most significant of these controversies occurred back in 2021, when Richardson tested positive for marijuana at the U.S. Olympic Trials, just weeks before the Tokyo Olympics. The positive test led to a 30-day suspension, preventing her from competing in the Games and sparking an outpouring of public criticism and support. While Richardson’s suspension was ultimately seen by many as harsh, it undeniably marred her reputation, and this blemish appears to have lingered in the eyes of some award committees.
In contrast, Gabby Thomas and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone have enjoyed a relatively drama-free year, with McLaughlin-Levrone dominating the 400m hurdles and Thomas maintaining her status as one of the world’s best 200m runners. Both athletes have been praised for their consistency, professionalism, and positive public images, factors that may have influenced their strong showings in the nominations.
Some critics argue that Richardson’s exclusion reflects the tendency of award committees to favor athletes with clean reputations over those who, despite their talent, have become embroiled in controversy. While Richardson’s comeback and athletic achievements are undeniable, the decision to overlook her for this prestigious recognition may signal that personal image still holds significant sway in the selection process.
Others, however, believe that the lack of recognition for Richardson is part of a broader pattern of bias and discrimination within American athletics, particularly toward athletes who do not fit the traditionally “polished” mold. For many of Richardson’s supporters, her defiance in the face of adversity is precisely what makes her an iconic figure in the sport — someone who challenges norms and refuses to be silenced.
The exclusion of Sha’Carri Richardson from this year’s American award nominations has reignited the conversation about how the sports world weighs personal controversies against athletic performance. As the year progresses and the athletics season comes to a close, many are left wondering whether Richardson will get another chance to receive the recognition she clearly deserves or if her personal story will continue to overshadow her athletic accomplishments.
In the meantime, both Thomas and McLaughlin-Levrone have reason to celebrate, as their nominations cement their status as two of America’s brightest stars in track and field. However, the debate surrounding Richardson’s absence will likely linger, leaving many to question whether the sport’s most prestigious awards can truly separate athleticism from the personal baggage that often follows high-profile athletes.
