Jamaican sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has officially announced that the 2025 season will mark the end of her illustrious career in athletics. The eight-time Olympic medallist confirmed on 23 June that she will retire at the conclusion of the season. On Friday, she competed for the final time at Jamaica’s National Stadium, marking the end of an era on home soil.
Fraser-Pryce Qualifies for Ninth World Championships
In what was an emotional farewell to the Jamaican crowd, Fraser-Pryce clocked 10.91 seconds in the women’s 100m final at the national championships, finishing third behind the newly crowned national champion Tina Clayton (10.81) and Shericka Jackson (10.88). The performance secured her a spot at the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September.
“I’m just grateful to be able to be here tonight, finishing healthy and making the team to Tokyo,” Fraser-Pryce said in a post-race interview.
She admitted there were still areas that required improvement ahead of the Championships, citing race sharpness in particular. Prior to the trials, she had only raced four times in 2025.
Despite limited competition this season, the veteran sprinter expressed enthusiasm about representing Jamaica on the world stage one final time.
Interestingly, although Fraser-Pryce is known to compete in the 200 metres, she opted not to contest the event this year.
A Rollercoaster End to an Iconic Career
During the 2024 season, Fraser-Pryce hinted that she was considering retirement. After qualifying for the semi-finals of the women’s 100m at the Paris Olympic Games, fans were stunned when she failed to appear on the start line, sparking speculation that her career had ended abruptly.
Although no official explanation was given for her withdrawal, fans were elated to learn she would return for one final season in 2025, offering an opportunity for a fitting send-off.
A Legacy Etched in History
Fraser-Pryce is widely regarded as one of the greatest sprinters in history. She boasts an exceptional record: three Olympic golds, four silvers, and a bronze – equalling the total of her legendary compatriot Usain Bolt. In addition, she has won 10 World Championship titles and holds the third-fastest time ever in the women’s 100m at 10.60 seconds.
Her extraordinary consistency is unparalleled. In 2022, she ran times of 10.62, 10.67, and 10.66 within a single week. At 38 years old, she has now run under 11 seconds in the 100m on 87 occasions – more than any other female sprinter in history. Only Merlene Ottey, with 67, comes close.
While many female sprinters retire in their late 20s or early 30s, a select few have defied convention. Merlene Ottey competed until the age of 52, making her final Olympic appearance at 44, while Allyson Felix bowed out at 36. Fraser-Pryce, who will be 38 at the Tokyo Championships, now joins their ranks as one of the sport’s enduring greats.
More Than a Sprinter
Beyond her athletic prowess, Fraser-Pryce has captivated fans with her vibrant personality and trademark hairstyles, which have become a signature at major championships. Her ever-changing looks generate excitement and admiration across social media, adding flair to her world-class performances.
Her positive energy and gracious sportsmanship have also made her a fan favourite. Frequently seen embracing her rivals and offering words of encouragement, Fraser-Pryce embodies the Olympic spirit both on and off the track.
Usain Bolt, who won his first Olympic gold alongside Fraser-Pryce in 2008, praised her contribution to the sport in a recent interview.
“Shelly’s just one of the greatest, hands down. She has proven it time and time again,” Bolt remarked. “For me, the biggest thing is having a child and coming back to dominate again – that shows incredible resilience.”
The Future of Jamaican Sprinting
Though Fraser-Pryce will leave behind a significant void, the next generation of Jamaican sprinters is already making its mark. The Clayton twins, Tia and Tina, both 20, have emerged as major prospects. Tia was the only Jamaican woman to reach the 100m final in Paris, while Tina recently claimed the national title. Earlier this year, the duo joined Fraser-Pryce and Shericka Jackson in securing bronze in the 4x100m relay at the World Athletics Relays in China.
As she prepares to take her final bow, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce leaves behind an unmatched legacy – a beacon of excellence, resilience, and inspiration. Her impact on track and field will echo for generations to come.
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