A Little Concerned’ – Sprint Legends Worried About Shericka Jackson Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Before Tokyo Worlds

A Little Concerned’ – Sprint Legends Worried About Shericka Jackson Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Before Tokyo Worlds

 

With just weeks to go before the start of the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, murmurs of concern are growing around the readiness of Jamaican sprint icons Shericka Jackson and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. Several sprinting greats have expressed what one termed being “a little concerned” about the two veterans’ form and fitness ahead of what is expected to be a fiercely competitive global meet.

Shericka Jackson, the reigning world champion over 200 metres and silver medallist in the 100m from Budapest 2023, has had a turbulent season. While she secured her place on the Jamaican team after finishing second in the 100m at the National Championships in Kingston last month, her performances have been under scrutiny.

Jackson clocked 10.88 seconds in the 100m at Trials and later posted a season’s best of 22.53s in the 200m at the Racers Grand Prix. However, analysts and fans alike have questioned whether the 30-year-old is peaking at the right time. One prominent former sprinter, speaking anonymously, said, “Shericka is a phenomenal athlete, but based on what we’ve seen this year, I’m a little concerned. She’s not as sharp out of the blocks, and her top-end speed doesn’t look like what it was last season.”

Jackson has openly admitted to struggling with mental fatigue and the pressure of expectations. In a candid post-Trials interview, she revealed she had sought professional help to manage the emotional toll of the season. “It’s been a roller coaster,” she said. “But I’m committed to showing up and giving it everything.”

Meanwhile, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who has confirmed that Tokyo will mark her final appearance at a global championship, is also facing questions about her preparedness. The 38-year-old sprint legend finished third in the 100m final at Trials in 10.91s, booking her spot on the national team but acknowledging afterward that there’s still “work to do.”

Fraser-Pryce, a five-time world champion in the 100m, has not raced extensively this season. While her experience and competitive instincts are unmatched, some insiders are wary. “You can never count out Shelly-Ann, but we have to be realistic,” said a former coach and Olympic medalist. “At her age, every race takes more out of you, and you need consistent competition to stay sharp. I’m hopeful, but yes, I’m a little concerned.”

Despite the doubts, both Jackson and Fraser-Pryce remain central to Jamaica’s medal hopes. Jackson is set to contest both the 100m and 200m, while Fraser-Pryce is expected to focus solely on the 100m.

With fierce competition expected from the Americans, including Sha’Carri Richardson, and rising European and African sprinters, the Tokyo Worlds could prove to be a defining moment for both women — one defending her crown, the other bidding farewell.

As the countdown continues, fans and legends alike will be watching closely to see if two of Jamaica’s greatest can rise to the occasion once more.