Photo: Getty Images
President Joe Biden has offered his thoughts on the suspension of Olympic hopeful Sha'Carri Richardson. The President told reporters that he was "proud" of the way that Richardson responded to being barred from the 100m dash at the Tokyo Olympics, but condoned the initial suspension handed down from USATF.
“Everybody knows what the rules are going in,” Biden said.
“Whether they should remain that way, whether that should remain the rule, is a different issue. Rules are rules.”
Just two weeks ago, Richardson represented America's best chance at winning a gold medal in the women's 100-meter dash at the 2021 Summer Olympic Games. However, things took a turn for the worse when she participated in a brief interview with a reporter at the U.S. Olympic Trials. During the encounter, the reporter informed Richardson that her biological mother has passed away. Not long thereafter, the track star was slated to participate in the women's 100-meter dash. In order to cope with the shock of losing her mother, Richardson reportedly inhaled or ingested a substance that contained a banned substance, THC. From there, Richardson went on to not only qualify for the Tokyo Olympics, but she also finished first in the 100-meter dash.
After experiencing the joy of qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics, Richardson learned that she would be barred from competing in the women's 100-meter dash due to a failed drug test. Richardson was forced to vacate the results of the U.S. Olympic Trials and serve a 30-day suspension. She issued a public statement regarding the matter on the TODAY Show.
"I apologize," Richardson said.
"As much as I'm disappointed I know that when I step on the track I represent not only myself, I represent a community that has shown great support, great love. I apologize for the fact that I didn't know how to control my emotions or deal with my emotions during that time."
Jenna Prandini of Clovia, California is expected to take Richardson's place in the 100-meter dash. However, Richardson may still be able to participate in the 4x100 meter relay. USA Track & Field has not yet determined its final 4x100 meter relay team.
Get the latest news 24/7 on The Black Information Network. Listen now on the iHeartRadio app or click HERE to tune in live.