The four-time Olympic champion has explained one major reason that sets Sha’Carri Richardson apart from other sprinters of this generation.

American sprint legend Michael Johnson has singled out why reigning world 100m champion Sha’Carri Richardson is a unique athlete.

In an interview with Olympics.com, the four-time Olympic champion hailed Richardson, noting that she is always herself without feeling the need to act or be like any other athlete.

Johnson, a former 200m world record, added that the 24-year-old has transformed the sport through her unique journey from serving a doping suspension to making an impact on the global stage.

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“I think Sha’Carri is a very good example of an athlete who is not copying any previous greats to make an impact in the sport,” Johnson said.

“The people that make the biggest impact are those who are just authentically themselves. And she is certainly that, an amazing talent who’s had a unique journey to actually realise her talent on the track and win medals. She’s probably one of the most interesting athletes and a fantastic talent,” he added.

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Richardson was due to compete at the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games but tested positive for cannabis use. The American sprint queen admitted to the use and accepted a one-month suspension from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency.