Sha’Carri Richardson returned to winning form after injury setbacks, while Olympic champion Lyles matched his personal best to capture his third U.S. men’s 100-meter title.
Sha’Carri Richardson and Noah Lyles reclaimed the spotlight Friday night, winning the women’s and men’s 100-meter finals at the 2026 U.S. Track and Field Championships in New York. Both sprinters delivered strong finishes as they continue building momentum ahead of next year’s World Athletics Championships.
As reported by ESPN, Richardson overcame a slow start to clock 10.77 seconds at Icahn Stadium. The 26-year-old pulled away from training partner Kayla White to win by 0.13 seconds and secure her third U.S. national title in the 100 meters. After the race, Richardson said she was grateful to be competing from a healthier place following injuries that affected her last season.
“It feels phenomenal to be back in a better place… healthy, mentally, physically, emotionally,” she said. “It shows that hard work pays off.”
The victory marks another step in Richardson’s return to top form after winning the 100-meter world title in 2023 and earning Olympic silver in Paris in 2024. Lyles also rallied after trailing early in the men’s final. The reigning Olympic champion surged through the field to win in 9.79 seconds, matching his personal best. Ronnie Baker finished second, while Kenny Bednarek placed third.
“I did what I do,” Lyles said after the race. “There’s no better rush than winning.”
The victory gave Lyles his third U.S. national championship in the distance, which isn’t his signature race as the 200 meters is. He celebrated by signing a trading card featuring his image, saying he planned to give it to a special fan.
Lyles has enjoyed a busy year off the track as well. He got married earlier this year and recently attended a FIFA World Cup match, where he posed for photos with sprint legend Usain Bolt. Despite his success, Lyles suggested he is already focused on bigger goals. “Shoot, I was just playing around this year,” he said. “I’m scared for y’all next year.”