Good News: Sprinter Fred Kerley Cleared to Compete in USA Track and Field Championships After Battery Charges Dropped

Good News: Sprinter Fred Kerley Cleared to Compete in USA Track and Field Championships After Battery Charges Dropped

 

Fred Kerley, one of the brightest stars in American sprinting, is officially back on track—literally and figuratively. The two-time Olympic medalist has been cleared to compete in the upcoming USA Track and Field Championships after charges of misdemeanor battery against him were dropped, ending a period of uncertainty surrounding his athletic future.

Kerley’s return comes as a relief to fans and officials alike. Known for his explosive speed and powerful performances on the world stage, the 29-year-old sprinter had been sidelined due to legal issues that threatened his eligibility for both the national championships and the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. His withdrawal from earlier events this season had raised concerns that he might miss yet another major international competition. However, with the legal matters now resolved, Kerley is once again free to pursue glory on the track.

The charges, originally filed earlier this year, stemmed from an alleged incident that occurred in Texas. Kerley consistently maintained his innocence throughout the investigation, and his legal team worked diligently to clear his name. On Monday, prosecutors officially dropped the case, citing insufficient evidence and conflicting witness accounts. With the case closed, USA Track and Field (USATF) confirmed that Kerley is eligible to compete and has been reinstated to the national roster.

“I’m grateful for the support from my family, my team, and the fans who stood by me,” Kerley said in a statement following the announcement. “I’ve never lost focus on my goals, and I’m ready to give everything I have on the track.”

Kerley’s return is particularly significant given the timing. The USA Track and Field Championships serve as the primary qualifying event for the World Championships, and his participation is crucial for Team USA’s medal hopes. A seasoned competitor, Kerley won silver in the 100 meters at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and has consistently ranked among the world’s fastest men in both the 100 and 200-meter events.

Fellow athletes have welcomed his return. “Fred is a fierce competitor and an important part of the sprinting community,” said fellow sprinter Noah Lyles. “We all want to see the best on the track, and it’s great that he’s back.

The championships, scheduled for next month, will now feature a highly anticipated showdown among the top American sprinters, including Kerley, Lyles, and Christian Coleman. With Kerley back in the mix, the battle for the national title—and spots on the World Championships team—just got even more intense.

While the road back hasn’t been easy, Kerley’s comeback marks a turning point, both for him and for American track and field. With his name cleared and his mind focused, the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in his already remarkable career.

As the championships approach, all eyes will be on Kerley—not for controversy, but for the speed and determination that have defined his legacy.