FACT CHECK: Is Sha’carri Richardson the fastest woman in the world?

Day 6 - World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023
Day 6 - World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023

In the realm of sprinting, the hunt for the prestigious title of the fastest woman alive is a dream of outstanding athleticism and speed. While Sha’Carri Richardson has certainly made her honor on the track, the existing holder of this honorable title is none other than Elaine Thompson-Herah (10.54 seconds). This truth is embedded in unequivocal proof that backs Thompson-Herah's amazing feat.

Elaine Thompson-Herah firmed her claim to the title with an amazing display of speed, acquiring an unmatched rate of 39.7 km/h. This fantastic accomplishment observed the fastest speed ever achieved by a woman sprinter, breaking the earlier record set by Florence Griffith-Joyner (10.49 seconds) back in 1988 at 39.1 km/h. Thompson-Herah's achievement transcended eras, setting a new benchmark for female sprinting.

In disparity, Sha’Carri Richardson's current success at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, celebrated a significant achievement in her career. Running the women's 100m final in a Championship record time frame of 10.65 seconds, she outperformed the last best set by Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce by a gap of 0.02 seconds. Richardson was officially declared the fastest female sprinter. However, there exists a disparity between her and Elaine Thompson-Herah.

Nevertheless, it's important to admit that the title of the fastest woman alive is not vested only upon the winner of the 100m race. Elaine Thompson-Herah's remarkable achievement in achieving the fastest top speed ever recorded in female sprinting has a special significance. Her accomplishment goes beyond a single race, illustrating a remarkable display of sustained momentum and athleticism.


Who is the fastest woman in the world?

Athletics - Commonwealth Games: Day 9
Athletics - Commonwealth Games: Day 9

While fans and supporters of Richardson may plead that the title commonly aligns with the 100m winner, the factual truth remains anchored in the definite achievement of top speed. Thompson-Herah's success exhibits the culmination of years of activity, commitment, and great aptitude, creating an unforgettable impact in the history of sprinting.

Thompson-Herah's comments echo her devotion to superiority. She recognizes the importance of optimal conditions and fierce competition in attaining the remarkable. With her eyes set on cracking the women's 100m world record, Thompson-Herah's purposes transcend individual races, striving for an enduring legacy in the sport.

In the fiery realm of sprinting, accomplishments emerge, records are broken, and new winners appear. Sha’Carri Richardson's victories are indisputable. Yet, the title of the fastest woman alive, backed by substantial proof of top speed, belongs to Elaine Thompson-Herah - a sprinter who has compelled the edges of human potential and carved her name in athletic history.

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