Global sprinting sensation Sha’Carri Richardson raced atop headlines after reports she accepted a one-month suspension from the forthcoming Tokyo Olympics after testing positive for marijuana use (as we reported here).
Embroiled in controversy, the incident’s caused quite the debate on social media with many users calling the reprimand an exaggerated punishment as the drug has been decriminalized in many parts of the United States. Nevertheless, the 21-year-old took to NBC’s ‘Today Show’ Friday (July 2) to discuss the matter.
“I just want to take responsibility for my actions, I know what I did,” she said during the virtual interview. “I know what I’m supposed to do and what I’m allowed not to do, and I still made that decision. But I’m not making an excuse or looking for any empathy in my case.”
Despite the polarization on the topic, Richardson’s supporters have minced no words about their support of the embattled track star. Among those standing by her side? Sportswear giant Nike.
“Don’t judge me, because I am human… I just happen to run a little faster.”
Sha’Carri Richardson (@itskerrii) speaks with @SavannahGuthrie about her failed drug test. pic.twitter.com/aZKTDhYn6Z
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) July 2, 2021
Nike, which was set to sponsor Richardson at the Games, responded to the hoopla around Sha’carri by issuing a statement.
“We appreciate Sha’Carri’s honesty and accountability and will continue to support her through this time,” the company said in a statement.
They weren’t the only ones. USA Track & Field also shared a supportive statement Friday.
“Sha’Carri Richardson’s situation is incredibly unfortunate and devastating for everyone involved. Athlete health and well-being continue to be one of USATF’s most critical priorities and we will work with Sha’Carri to ensure she has ample resources to overcome any mental health challenges now and in the future,” the statement read.
Yaaaaassss! Get that check gurrrlll. Smoking weed ain’t nothin to be upset about anymore. Yours truly stays smoked out daily 💨💨😂😂💯🤳🏽
H*** please. I have a daughter to think about. I’m no ghetto ass baby mama.
You have a daughter??!!! Damn she’s getting all the negative Wack ass vibes from you..look how you act in here…feel bad for that little girl
Mention my child, you busted clown.
Wow this raggedy ass Shayla who acts a f****** Tom fool on this site has a daughter??!! You should be f****** embarrassed..if that lil girl could go back and read all the comments you left I’m sure she’d disown you as a mother…What type of mother spend her time online leavin hatful comments ? A trash one. Grow the f*** up! Every time I see you being dumb in here imma call your ass out..wanna bring up your daughter to “try” to come for someone nah b**** think of your daughter every day you on here being an idiot.
#Facts. Call child protective services on that troll trick
Ohhhh shiii you just dragged gayla q**** to the pitz of hell 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
You fell straight for the bait 🤣🤣🤣 Bish I don’t care, you can say whatever you want, I do 💋💋💋
Word.
Black women are alway something instead of taking care of them babies, what a bunch of deadbeats.
Of course they support ‘it’. Look at all the money they’ll make from sponsering goofy looking shoes.