Gail Devers: Sha’Carri Richardson’s Resilience Will Lead Team USA to Olympic Glory in 2028

**Gail Devers on Sha’Carri Richardson: A Bright Future Ahead Despite Olympic Setback**

Three-time Olympic champion Gail Devers has come to the defense of Sha’Carri Richardson following her performance at the Paris Olympics. Devers highlighted Richardson’s resilience and expressed confidence that the U.S. will reclaim gold at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, potentially with Richardson leading the way.

Devers noted that although Richardson didn’t secure a gold medal in Paris, the opportunity will return to the U.S. in LA. The last American woman to win Olympic gold in the 100m was Devers herself, who dominated the competition at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

She emphasized that American sprinting glory could be restored even sooner, whether through Richardson or another talented sprinter. “Sha’Carri came in second, so we’re looking forward, and I believe everything happens for a reason. The reason she didn’t clinch it in Paris is that it’s meant to return to American soil in 2028, and who knows who will be competing then. Achieving success isn’t easy, and there’s always a target on your back once you reach the top. It’s about trust and belief,” Devers said in an interview with Athlos.

The sprinting legend also praised Richardson’s performance on the Olympic stage. In the women’s 100m final, Richardson earned a silver medal, finishing just behind Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred, who secured her country’s first-ever Olympic medal.

In the women’s 4x100m relay, Richardson anchored Team USA to victory, despite receiving the baton later than her competitors.

“Oh absolutely, I’m always impressed with her. Everyone has a story, and hers is one of resilience. When things get tough, she finds a way to bounce back. She has a strong support system, and that’s what this meet is about—women coming together and supporting each other to make success happen,” Devers added.