The 2023 Diamond League had some fierce competitors this year. One of them was America’s own Sha’Carri Richardson, who is the talk of the town at the moment. While it didn’t prove to be as successful as the World Championship, her refreshing and unique look for an athlete continues to raise eyebrows. Surprisingly, there seems to be a reason behind it, which involves the online trolling and backlash she has faced previously. Even though many weren’t impressed by the 23-year-old, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is here to support her bold decision.

What could be the reason? Let’s take a deeper look.?

Shaquille O’Neal backs up Sha’Carri Richardson’s controversial yet bold decision?

Sha’Carri Richardson’s stock continues to rise ahead of the 2024 Olympics. The 100-m sprinter has outdone herself on several occasions by setting a goal that is close to impossible. One such was her run during the World Championship last month, where she managed to finish at a championship-record 10.65 seconds.?

The same was the case in the 2020 Olympics trial, where she finished at 10.86 seconds. Sadly for America, the 23-year-old was suspended for a month by the US Anti-Doping Agency, missing the Olympics. However, the backlash was not just for that, but also for her looks as an athlete.

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Social media has not been kind to her- trolling her long nails, looks, and especially her hair. Well, Richardson decided to trigger the haters more. In an interview before the 2023 Diamond League Finals, the youngster revealed,?“I will say, my coach, I told him that if I go 10.6, I?ll wear my natural hair.”

Richardson completed 10.65 and thus she?“had to pull out the natural”. Impressed by this confidence from Richardson, Shaq shared the above video to his Instagram story.?

Can Sha’Carri Richardson break the 100-m record??

That is not going to be easy, however, it is definitely possible considering the 23-year-old’s impeccable form. The record for the women’s 100-m stands at 10.49 seconds and Richardson finished at an impressive 10.65 just a month ago.?

All eyes are on the young sensation as she will look to break the record soon in the Olympics next year. This could also possibly shut down the hate once and for all!

Read more: Tension Erupts on American Soil as Sha?Carri Richardson?s Jamaican Rival Elaine Thompson-Herah Calls Out Referee Post 100M Final at Diamond League 2023

Do you think Sha’Carri Richardson can break the 100-m record? Share your take in the comments below.