American sprint queen Sha’Carri Richardson navigates a world of immense popularity that is often accompanied by significant public scrutiny and criticism. Despite these challenges, the 25-year-old Dallas native has developed a remarkable ability to adapt, particularly concerning her mental well-being. This journey was recently illuminated during a candid conversation with tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams on their Stockton Street podcast, where Richardson offered a deep dive into her mindset, inspiration, and methods for dealing with negative comments.

Richardson openly discussed the mental health challenges inherent in living under the global spotlight, emphasizing that mental wellness is a continuous process, not a fixed destination. Reflecting on this, she stated, “There’s never a finish line—it’s ironic me saying that.” She underscored the constant need for mindfulness, especially for public figures like herself and the Williams sisters. Richardson described her mental health journey as one she is still “strangely figuring out as life is going on,” embracing the rollercoaster nature of life as “still the best ride to be on.”

Her resilience extends to how she handles negativity. Richardson revealed a proactive approach, using criticism as motivation. “I use it as motivation. I’ve gotten to the point where if you don’t have haters, something’s missing,” she shared with the Williams sisters. She acknowledged that her deep-seated confidence is often misinterpreted as cockiness but defended its crucial role in high-pressure situations. For Richardson, self-belief is paramount: “It gets down to those moments where it’s not the crowd, it’s not your coach, it’s just you by yourself. Who’s going to pour into you? It has to be you that feeds you the same way that it’s you that’s your biggest critic.”

A defining moment that epitomized her transformative mindset occurred at the 2023 U.S. track and field championships. Just before the women's 100m final, Richardson dramatically removed her bright orange wig, revealing her natural braids—an act that surprised commentators, with one remarking, “Oh wow... She means business.” This symbolic act was later clarified by Richardson on the Williams sisters' podcast as a “representation of a transformation in front of the world.” It marked a powerful declaration: “This is me. I am back. No, I’m not back because I’m still me. But I am better.” This powerful mantra, “I'm not back, I'm better,” has since become a cornerstone of her philosophy, signifying evolution rather than a mere return.

Richardson credits the strong Black women in her life for shaping her into the person she is today, attributing her drive to the “feminine energy” she received, which combined power with nurturing. This influence has fueled her actions and achievements. Her renewed mindset propelled her to a maiden world title in the 100m in Budapest just weeks after the US Championships and a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, demonstrating her ability to perform despite major setbacks. While she has faced challenging seasons and moments of difficulty, her consistent mental toughness ensures she always competes.

Looking ahead, with personal goals still in sight and a home Olympics at LA28 on the horizon, Richardson is also embracing her role as an influencer. She aims to continue evolving, striving to be “better, not back,” and hopes to inspire the next generation. She views being in sports as a powerful source of inspiration, believing it builds character, a legacy she wishes to pass down, even to her own children.