Richardson was slated to compete at the Tokyo Olympics after she won the 100-meter final at the U.S trials three years ago, just one week after her mother passed away. She later tested positive for THC, one of the active components of cannabis, and received a one-month suspension which prevented her from competing that year. Richardson said at the time that she had smoked marijuana to cope with her mother’s death, coupled with the pressure of competing on such a large stage. 

The athlete has spent the years since vigorously training under the mentality of “I’m Not Back, I’m Better.” She solidified her growth when she won the 100-meter world title at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Hungary, finishing with a personal best of 10.65 seconds and officially becoming the fastest woman alive.

“I’d say the message I’m sending out is to believe in yourself no matter what,” Richardson continued. “You want to remain solid in yourself. Stay grounded in yourself and your hard work.”