Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Begins Her Final Chapter in Doha, But Can the Legend Still Soar?
The lights at Suheim bin Hamad Stadium lit up once more for Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, returning to a track that witnessed one of her finest moments in 2019. But May 16, 2025, felt different. This wasn’t just another season opener—it marked the start of her farewell year. And yet, rather than a dominant return, it was a surprising shift in momentum. The Jamaican icon, typically known for explosive starts, was left trailing behind rising star Tia Clayton, who won the 100m in 10.92 seconds.
Swiss sprinter Mujinga Kambundji also outpaced Fraser-Pryce, flipping the narrative and sparking speculation across the track and field community. While Fraser-Pryce had already announced that 2025 would be her final season, this subdued performance—along with a quiet showing in a recent relay—has some wondering if the end is arriving faster than expected.
🇯🇲 Exactly One Month before the Jamaica National Championship.
Here are the Top Three Fastest Athletes across Sprints and Hurdles.
Womens’ 100m:
1. Tia Clayton~ 10.92
2. Tina Clayton~ 11.02
3. Shericka Jackson~ 11.04
Womens’ 200m:
1. Niesha Burgher~ 22.39 (I)
2. Dejanea Oakley~…— Kemal (@kemal_e_forde) May 26, 2025
Just a month ahead of the Jamaican National Championships, sprint analyst data highlighted that Fraser-Pryce is not among the top three fastest women’s 100m sprinters in the country. Tia Clayton leads with 10.92s, followed by Tina Clayton at 11.02 and Shericka Jackson at 11.04. In the 200m, the leaders are Niesha Burgher, Dejaenae Oakley, and Nickisha Pryce—with no sign of Shelly-Ann.
However, there’s reason not to count her out just yet. Earlier this month at Velocity Fest 17 in Kingston, she clocked a wind-assisted 10.94s. While the +3.1 m/s tailwind meant the time wouldn’t count officially, it showed she still has the firepower to compete. Fraser-Pryce has long been a slow starter to her seasons, preferring to build momentum with each race rather than peak early.
Her words after the race offered deeper insight: “I’ve been blessed to compete at the highest level for many years, and with that comes a responsibility to lead, inspire, and uplift the next generation… That legacy continues to drive me.” Even as her times fall under scrutiny, her purpose stretches beyond podiums.
Though she hasn’t formally announced retirement, she hinted at her intentions with characteristic poise: “I haven’t confirmed that (retirement), so when I do, I’ll let you know.” It’s the kind of statement that leaves doors slightly ajar—true to the unpredictable spirit of her storied career.
Fraser-Pryce made headlines during the women’s 4x100m relay heats at the World Relays. While Jamaica didn’t dominate as expected—Spain took the win—Shelly-Ann’s second-leg burst reminded the world of her class. It was a moment of sheer professionalism and pride, a sprint that spoke louder than words.
A month prior, she posted a tribute to her career, ending with the words “Unfinished Business.” It’s clear: she isn’t racing to extend records. She’s racing to leave the sport on her own terms.
At 38, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce remains more than a sprinter. She’s a mother, a champion, a trailblazer. Her mission is no longer just about medals—it’s about cementing a legacy of resilience, representation, and unmatched determination. Whether this season ends with glory or not, she’s already won the hearts of generations.