Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce: “I am a Fierce Competitor, my Only Goal is to win”

Five-time World Champion in the 100 metres, two-time Olympic Champion. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is without doubt one of the greatest sprinters of all time. 2024 was not a successful year due to injuries, but 2025 could be. “After the disappointing Paris Games, I took my time to recover and rebuild,” explains Fraser-Pryce. “I am healthy and have trained hard over the past few months. I am ready to go for a sixth world title in Tokyo!” she says resolutely.

“That’s why the Allianz Memorial Van Damme is a very important meeting for me,” the Jamaican continues. “Good training alone is not enough, you also have to be able to translate that into competition. I want to nail my start on Friday, and I also want to see other technical details that I have worked hard on translated into competition. A fast time on Friday would certainly be a confidence booster, but the most important thing is the technical execution. Then the fast time will come naturally,” Fraser-Pryce knows.

The Jamaican living legend will face 24-year-old American Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, who is undefeated in the 100 metres this year. “I think what she’s doing is fantastic. She’s already run 10.65 this year and I know how fast that is. But that doesn’t scare me. I love racing against other top athletes, it brings out the best in me,” says Fraser-Pryce, who’s personal best is 10.60 whilst also being the Memorial meeting record holder with a time of 10.72.

“You know, people sometimes ask me if I still have anything to lose at 38, with my track record,” Fraser-Pryce muses. “Of course I do! I’m a fierce competitor, my only goal is to win. Even at 38. If I didn’t believe it was possible, I wouldn’t be doing this anymore. My secret? There is no secret. My training discipline has brought me this far, and I get so much joy from the sport. I enjoy it immensely and am very grateful for everything I have achieved in my career and have been able to experience.”

And now one last chance to shine in Brussels? “Yes, I’m really looking forward to it. The stadium is packed every year. People shout my name. I love a lively stadium and I’m sure it will be just the same tomorrow!” concludes Fraser-Pryce happily.