In the world of track and field, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has long been known as one of the most invincible figures in the sport. While most bow out of the sport in their late 20s, Mommy Rocket is still going strong. At 38, the Jamaican mother of one is still touted as the biggest contender for the gold. But when the rumors surrounding her retirement became louder, even the most ardent of fans thought that their icon might be going out. But we all know champions are built differently. Shelly-Ann is clear, and she is ready. But for what? 

It all started back at the Velocity Fest 17 in Kingston. Taking on the likes of Natasha Morrison (11.01s) and Shaniqua Bascombe (11.28s), Fraser-Pryce proved why she was still leagues ahead. Dropping a blistering 10.94s, the Jamaican icon won an easy race. However, coming to the press conference, Fraser-Pryce was confronted with an awkward question. A journalist asked her, “It might be your last season…”

Now, such a question was enough to put any other athlete in an awkward situation. But the iron-clad mentality of Fraser-Pryce evoked a strong answer from her.  Unperturbed by the question, the Olympic gold medalist replied firmly, “Ok, well, I haven’t confirmed that, so when I do I will let you know, thank you!” Surely, self-belief and confidence were oozing out from Fraser-Pryce. 

And now, much to prove her point officially, Fraser-Pryce is indeed back in the game! With the World Relays coming up in Guangzhou, China, in May 2025, Jamaica released the official names of its athletes for the event. And right up there leading the women’s division is none other than Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce! This is one of the biggest news stories at the moment.

This will be the first major international competition for Fraser-Pryce after her Paris debacle. And while the expectations are sky high, the Olympian will have significant backup. Together with Fraser-Pryce, the likes of Shericka Jackson and Alana Reid have also been named in the final lineup. Meanwhile, as this is great news for the fans, a US track legend recently shared his two cents on the Jamaican female icon.

Justin Gatlin makes a bold claim about Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s final lap

Justin Gatlin isn’t holding back. As retirement rumors continue to swirl around Jamaican sprint queen Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, the American track legend has offered his own compelling insight. And it’s far from what fans might expect. Speaking on the Tidal League podcast, Gatlin didn’t just acknowledge Fraser-Pryce’s legacy—he signaled that her final season could be her most dangerous yet.

Gatlin directly addressed her recent departure from long-time coach Reynaldo Walcott. He pointed out, “When you part ways with your coach that have helped make you the athlete you are, that’s not really good… but Shelly-Ann didn’t.” While such a move could spell decline for most athletes, Gatlin highlighted how Fraser-Pryce has done the opposite—growing more confident and dominant with each race.

But Gatlin’s biggest revelation was a warning to the rest of the field. He stated, “If she’s going to announce that this is her last year, you better believe she’s about to be ready to go out there and ride.” According to Gatlin, Fraser-Pryce knows the game and the competition. And as she gears up for what could be her final lap, Gatlin believes her rivals are in for a brutal reminder of exactly who “Mommy Rocket” is.