Footage has emerged showing Olympic gold medallist Sha’Carri Richardson in a physical altercation with her boyfriend, fellow US sprinter Christian Coleman, at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport2
Security video from the busy travel hub appears to show Richardson confronting Coleman in a heated exchange before shoving him against a wall.
Coleman is seen attempting to walk away from the dispute, but Richardson approaches him several times, pushing and shoving during the incident.
Police confirmed the confrontation led to Richardson’s arrest on suspicion of fourth-degree assault. She was later charged in connection with the incident.
The 24-year-old athlete, who won silver in the women’s 100m and gold in the 4x100m relay at the 2024 Paris Olympics, was taken into custody by Port of Seattle Police officers.
According to official reports, Richardson told officers the argument began when Coleman took her headphones.
In her statement, Richardson denied physically assaulting Coleman, insisting the row had been “only verbal”.
Police documents confirm no visible injuries were recorded, but officers proceeded with the arrest based on witness accounts and the security footage.
Coleman, however, has defended Richardson, telling reporters he did not believe she should have been arrested over the incident.
Describing the clash as a “sucky situation all round,” Coleman stressed that he had no intention of pressing charges.
He characterised the row as a heated exchange between “two dominant personalities” and said disagreements were part of human relationships.
“I feel like she shouldn’t have been arrested,” Coleman said. “People have discussions and emotions — everybody has things they need to work on.”
The world 100m champion also said he preferred to extend “grace, mercy and love” rather than dwell on the altercation.
“Sha’Carri is a human being and a great person,” he continued. “We’ve been great team-mates all year. She’s the best female athlete in the world.”
Coleman added that Richardson had been dealing with “a lot of emotions and forces” over the past year, which were difficult for others to fully understand.
“She’s one-of-one,” he said. “It’s been a tough journey for her this year, but she’s going to bounce back.”
Richardson has not publicly commented on the release of the footage, which has since circulated widely on social media.
Both athletes are expected to continue competing on the international athletics circuit in the coming months.
The Port of Seattle Police confirmed the case has been referred to prosecutors for review.
Editing by M10News Sports Desk | Contact: sports@m10news.com
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