Sha’Carri Richardson nailed her first Olympics race—literally. Yes, the U.S. track star qualified for semifinals after running the 100 meter heat in just 10.94 seconds, but the 24-year-old did so in a manicure so beautiful it deserves a spot in The Louvre.
Richardson is among many Olympians who have chosen to embrace both beauty and athleticism this year.
“You don’t have to sacrifice your femininity to play any sport,” rugby player Ilona Maher said of why she wears bright red lipstick on the field. “It doesn’t take away from your athletic ability.” Simone Biles feels similarly: The five-time gold medalist chronicled her pre-Paris hair and nail appointments for TikTok and re-applied her setting powder and lip liner amid the artistic gymnastics women’s team final.
So really, it’s no surprise that Sha’Carri Richardson is on Team Beauty too, especially since the Texas native is already known and beloved for her elaborate manicures.
Christian Petersen/Getty Images
After wearing long, coffin-shaped red, white, and blue nails at the 2024 Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony—with American flag-inspired designs, french tips, and jewels—Richardson changed it up once it came time to compete.
On semifinals race day, Richardson opted for a long stiletto shape for all fingers but her pointer, which nodded to her red, white, and blue vibes from the week before.
Michael Steele/Getty Images
