Sha’Carri Richardson is a world champion sprinter known for her speed and unique personality. She has been described as bold, brash, confident, and outspoken. But the list doesn’t stop here; she has achieved national records and won the NCAA 100-meter championship twice. However, in 2019, due to her unique personality, she was signed for a multi-million-dollar deal with Nike. It was a partnership that provided her with extensive support and resources to showcase her talents on the global stage.
Now, following in the footsteps of Sha’Carri Richardson, another American middle-distance runner joined the clan. She is the youngest athlete to hold Olympic and world titles in the 800 meters. Previously, this record was held by Ajee Wilson. And now, breaking another piece of news, she has signed with Nike. Brand endorsements are as much a coveted aspect of an athlete’s ethos as much as their on-court performances and it seems to be the corollary that the younger they make their mark in business, the better.
Nike just did it, signing on Athing Mu in their vivid repertoire
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Rori Dunk, a respected figure in sports business media, recently shared a post on X. The post featured Athing Mu, who captured the attention of enthusiasts and professionals alike. The caption reads, “Olympic Champion Athing Mu models for Nike. As an athlete representing a brand it’s more than competing, it’s also being an ambassador”. At just 21 years old, Mu’s journey to becoming a Nike ambassador is nothing short of extraordinary.
Olympic Champion Athing Mu models for Nike
As an athlete representing a brand it's more than competing, it's also being an ambassador pic.twitter.com/MYjg8Jhik4
— RoriDunk (@FitzDunk) February 20, 2024
However, her journey to success started at the tender age of 19, when she clinched the gold medal in the fiercely competitive 800 meters at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In doing so, she shattered a national record previously held by Ajee Wilson since 2017 and even secured a continental under-20 record. Adding to her impressive haul, Mu also contributed to her team’s victory in the women’s 4 × 400 m relay.
Mu’s accolades don’t stop there. In 2022, she further solidified her dominance by claiming the title of 800m World Champion, a historic achievement that marked her as the first American woman to accomplish such a feat. However, it seems Nike will continue to provide her with the same level of support they offered Richardson, ensuring she receives the backing needed to maintain her momentum.
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How Nike’s deal sealed Sha’Carri Richardson’s spot in the limelight
Sha’Carri Richardson’s dominance at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest not only earned her gold and bronze medals, but also lucrative deals from top brands. Nike, impressed by her outstanding performance, sealed a groundbreaking $20 million deal with the world champion. This deal marks a significant milestone in Richardson’s journey, from overcoming the setback of missing the 2020 Olympics to proving her worth through consistent victories.
Read More: Sha’Carri Richardson Wins Hearts Online With Sophisticated Style Switch Up: “My Inspiration”
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Since 2019, Nike has been supporting Richardson, standing by her side through her rise to fame and even during challenging times including doping allegations. Richardson’s unique style and bold fashion choices align perfectly with Nike’s ethos, making her a natural fit for their campaigns. Alongside Beats and Apple Music, Richardson continues to expand her portfolio of endorsements, solidifying her status as a leading figure in both sports and fashion.
Watch this story: Sha’Carri Richardson Charges On NBC and US Track and Field Authorities Due to The Exploitation of The Athletes