Jamaican sprint icon Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has officially announced her retirement from athletics, bringing to a close one of the most illustrious careers in track and field history.
In an emotional statement shared on Instagram on Monday, the five-time world 100m champion expressed gratitude to God, her family, and Jamaica for their unwavering support throughout her 18-year journey on the global stage.
“For the past 18 years, time—down to the very millisecond—has been at the epicentre of my life,” Fraser-Pryce wrote. “Every day of training, each of my 275 races, every step to the starting line was my own pursuit to not only utilise the time given but to make it my own. For nearly two decades, I have made every second count, and I give God all the glory for blessing me with a career in something I have grown to love so deeply.”
Widely celebrated as one of the greatest female sprinters of all time, the 37-year-old mother of one reflected on the sacrifices, discipline, and faith that defined her career. She paid tribute to her husband, Jason, whom she described as her “anchor and greatest teammate,” and their son, Zyon, whose birth she called “God’s perfect timing.”
Fraser-Pryce, affectionately known as the “Pocket Rocket,” won two Olympic 100m gold medals (Beijing 2008 and London 2012) and amassed 10 World Championship titles, making her one of the most decorated athletes in history. Beyond medals, she became a symbol of resilience, motherhood, and Jamaican pride.
“I am a proud daughter of the soil, and I owe an eternal debt of gratitude to Jamaica,” she said. “We may be small, but we are mighty, and I am humbled to have represented the strength of our nation with passion on the global stage.”
The legendary sprinter clarified that her journey is not entirely over but entering a new phase. “I know my race is not finished; it is simply a lane change,” she wrote. “This new chapter is about passing on the lessons the sport has given me, using my voice to advocate for others, and helping the next generation shine even brighter.”
As she hands the baton to the next generation of sprinters, Fraser-Pryce leaves behind an enduring legacy defined not just by speed, but by purpose and faith.
“From Waterhouse to the world, every second has been for something greater,” she concluded. “As I pass the baton to the next generation, let this be your reminder that time will honour your greatness.”
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