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The USA could be without a prominent sprinter at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Track star Sha’Carri Richardson, who was expected to contend for the gold medal in the women’s 100 meters, failed a drug test and faces a one to three month suspension as a result according to the Jamaica Gleaner. Tyler Dragon is reporting she tested positive for marijuana, not a steroid. The Olympics run from July 23 to August 8, which could mean she misses the Tokyo Games.
The 21-year old won the US Olympic Trials in the 100m race, but that performance has been provisionally disqualified as a result of the failed test. Richardson does have the opportunity to prove the substance she tested for was used outside of competition and provided no benefit, which would lighten the penalties. Dragon is also reporting she could still get to run in the 4x100 relay.
Richardson has withdrawn from the Diamond League event in Stockholm on July 4th, one of the tune-up events before Tokyo.
According to The Gleaner, Jenna Prandini is in line to replace Richardson at the Olympics. The USA is heavily favored to win the most medals (-1000) and most gold medals (-1200) at the Games, according to DraftKings Sportsbook.