Christian Coleman has come to the defense of fellow sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson. Richardson was arrested on July 27, 2025 at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport on a domestic violence charge. Authorities say she allegedly shoved Coleman, pulled his backpack, and threw what may have been headphones near him.
Emotional Support and Understanding
Coleman spoke about the incident at the U.S. Track & Field Championships. He called the event “a sucky situation all around.” He added, “I don’t feel like she should have been arrested. I mean people have discussions and emotions and stuff like that.”
He also acknowledged that Richardson faces personal issues. “She has things that she needs to work on for herself, of course. So do I, so do you, so does everybody,” he said. Coleman emphasized, “I’m the type of guy who’s in the business of extending grace, and mercy and love.”
Praise Amid Controversy
Coleman described Richardson as “a human being and a great person.” He said he sees her as “the best female athlete in the world” and that she continues to impress him daily. He noted her resilience after injury setbacks and expressed confidence she will bounce back.
Coleman also declined to press charges. Police reports said he “declined to be a victim” and stopped cooperating further in the investigation. Richardson was held for roughly 19 hours at a Washington state facility before being released the following day.
Career Implications
Richardson withdrew from the 100-meter competition at the U.S. Championships after her arrest. She also missed qualifying for the women’s 200-meter final. Still, as the reigning world champion from Budapest 2023, she retains an automatic berth in the 100 meters at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September.
Coleman also had a disappointing weekend. He failed to qualify for the world team in both the 100m and 200m. He finished fifth and sixth in those finals amid media questions about the airport incident.
USA Track & Field has issued no substantive comment. Officials said only that the federation is aware of reports and has no further statement at this time.