Nike has issued a statement showing their support for Sha’Carri Richardson after she failed a marijuana test.
“We appreciate Sha’Carri’s honesty and accountability and will continue to support her through this time,” says the official statement from the brand, according to The Undefeated‘s Aaron Johnson.
Richardson won the 100 meters at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials on June 19. The positive test result would nullify her win and could lead to a one-month or longer suspension from the sport.
On Friday morning, she apologized for the positive marijuana result during an interview with the “TODAY” show.
“I apologize for the fact that I didn’t know how to control my emotions or deal with my emotions during that time,” she said. “Don’t judge me. I am human.… I just happen to run a little faster.”
Richardson explained that she turned to marijuana after hearing news of her biological mother’s passing.
“We all have our different struggles,” she said. “But to put on a face, to have to go in front of the world and put on a face and hide my pain, like, who are you? Who am I to tell you how to cope when you’re dealing with a pain or you’re dealing with a struggle you’ve never experienced before?”
At just 21, Richardson’s insight into her actions and subsequent consequences are to be admired.
“I know I can’t hide myself,” she said. “So, at least in some type of way, I was just trying to hide my pain.”
On social media, the reaction to Richardson’s ban has been mostly supportive. While there is obvious disappointment over the possibility of her missing the majority, if not all, of the Tokyo Olympics, the air is one of understanding and upliftment.
Brands tend to drop athletes at the drop of a dime. We are glad the young sprinter is not further punished for this fleeting error in judgment.
