Seattle police reportedly took Richardson into custody after a charge of domestic violence.
Sha'Carri Richardson Arrested for Domestic Violence, Withdraws from National Championships
Sha'Carri Richardson, the reigning 100 metres world champion, was arrested for domestic violence at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on July 27, 2025. According to reports, the incident involved Richardson's boyfriend and fellow sprinter, Christian Coleman.
The altercation occurred on the evening of July 27, and TSA security footage reviewed by the Port of Seattle Police Department allegedly showed Richardson pushing Coleman multiple times, including hard enough for him to fall into a column, as well as throwing headphones at him. Coleman, who is Richardson’s boyfriend of two years, declined to press charges, stating he did not want to be a victim.
As a result of the incident, Richardson withdrew from the 100-meter semifinals at the 2025 USA Track and Field Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon. However, her elite status and automatic qualification for the upcoming 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo mean she did not risk losing her place by withdrawing.
Despite the incident, Richardson participated in the 100 heats on Thursday and was not affected by the altercation. USA Track & Field (USATF) is aware of the reports but is not commenting on the matter. Neither USATF nor Richardson's agent has made a comment regarding the incident or her withdrawal from the semi-finals.
Following the arrest and release, Richardson spent less than 24 hours in custody before being released. The police report obtained by USA TODAY Sports did not directly mention Richardson's withdrawal from the 100 semi-finals. The domestic violence case was cleared after Coleman chose not to pursue legal action.
In summary, while the arrest led to Richardson withdrawing from the current national championships, her elite status and automatic qualification mean the incident has not yet had a direct impact on her participation in major upcoming international competitions. The domestic violence case was cleared after Coleman declined to press charges.
[1] Seattle Times
[2] CBS Sports
[3] USA TODAY Sports
[4] ESPN
- In the realm of general-news, Seattle Times, CBS Sports, USA TODAY Sports, and ESPN all covered the arrest of Sha'Carri Richardson for domestic violence at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
- Among crime-and-justice stories, the sports-related arrest of Sha'Carri Richardson, the 100 metres world champion, also made headlines, with reports of the incident appearing in Seattle Times, CBS Sports, USA TODAY Sports, and ESPN.
