In a sport where time waits for no one, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce continues to defy every clock, every doubt, and every whispered rumor of retirement. At 38, most sprinters have long stepped off the track, but not Jamaica’s “Mommy Rocket.” The queen of consistency reminded the world exactly who she is at Velocity Fest 17 in Kingston, blazing through the 100m in 10.94 seconds against a strong field. It wasn’t just a win. But a statement that she’s still in a league of her own. With the World Championships approaching, we might just get to see Shelly-Ann’s rise to the occasion once more.
And it’s that very dominance that has caught the attention of American sprint legend Justin Gatlin. While talk swirls about whether Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is nearing the end of her storied career, Gatlin sees something else. An athlete who’s always ready, whether she lines up for one race or a hundred. Gatlin’s eyes, it doesn’t matter how much she competes. His words echo what her rivals must fear. Even in a quiet season, Shelly is never out of the conversation.
Speaking on the Ready Set Go podcast on YouTube, Justin Gatlin reflected on Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s impressive season opener at Velocity Fest 17. “Yo girl officially has opened up her season. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Mommy Rocket, opened up with a 10.94. Plus three wind, but a 10.94.” Despite the tailwind, which some would use as an excuse, Fraser-Pryce showcased exactly why she’s the gold standard.
“Watching it, how she unfolded, great start, worked hard, finished the race strong,” Gatlin added, pointing out her ability to dominate from start to finish. Fraser-Pryce’s quick start, sharp execution, and unwavering control throughout the race were clear signs that she’s still very much in her prime. But it wasn’t just Gatlin who was impressed by Mommy Rocket.
Rodney Green also noted the value of experience in a race like this, saying, “She’s a seasoned runner… I always give them a cushion because they know how to get the job done.” Shelly has been under the 11-second mark for 16 years, with her first sub-11 time at the 2008 Olympic trials, finishing second with 10.85. Her 10.94 at Velocity Fest was another solid reminder of why she’s always a contender, regardless of conditions.
When it comes to big moments, Shelly has solidified her status as a championship performer. And Gatlin, with his extensive career, understands this as well as anyone. “She can run a hundred races before championships or one race before championships, and she is going to be ready for that championship. She is going to be on that podium.” Whether it’s a season opener or a showdown, Shelly is always locked in, always ready.
Her consistency at the top level is unmatched, with Olympic golds in 2008 and 2012, a bronze in 2016, and a silver in 2020. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce remains a constant force in the world of sprinting.
Shelly Fraser-Pryce gears up for World Relays with big moves
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has sent ripples through the sprinting world by parting ways with her longtime coach, Reynaldo Walcott. After four incredibly successful years under the Elite Performance Track Club, her decision to break from that familiar system ahead of what may be her final competitive season has raised eyebrows. With so much of her recent dominance tied to that setup, the timing couldn’t be more critical or more surprising.
But if there’s one thing Shelly has made clear over the years, it’s that she doesn’t fear bold decisions. Just as the coaching change stirred conversation, Jamaica delivered another headline-grabber: the official World Relays roster. Leading the women’s lineup for Guangzhou in May 2025? None other than Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce herself.
This marks her first major international meet since her unexpected Paris withdrawal, and expectations couldn’t be higher. But she won’t be alone! Powerhouse Shericka Jackson and rising star Alana Reid will be by her side, making this squad a serious threat. For fans, it’s more than just a return. It’s a potential redemption arc in motion.
And if you need proof that Fraser-Pryce hasn’t lost a step, look no further than a school sports day in Jamaica. On April 16, she laced up not for a stadium crowd but for her son Zyon’s parents’ race. No track, no blocks, just grass and pride on the line. Yet even there, Mommy Rocket took off like it was an Olympic final. The 38-year-old torched the field so thoroughly that not only were the other moms left in the dust. Turns out, no matter the setting, when Shelly-Ann runs, the rest of the world just tries to keep up.
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