Sha’Carri Richardson is speaking out about the criticism she’s faced since she was suspended from the U.S. Olympic track and field team after she tested positive for THC, the active ingredient in marijuana.
The 21-year-old sprinter sent a series of tweets about the situation early Sunday.
“The support my community I thank y’all , the negative forget y’all and enjoy the games because we all know it won’t be the same,” she tweeted.
“I’m sorry, I can’t be y’all Olympic Champ this year but I promise I’ll be your World Champ next year,” she added in a follow-up post.
“All these perfect people that know how to live life , I’m glad I’m not one of them!” she concluded.
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President Biden gave a muted response the day before when asked about the situation.
“The rules are the rules and everybody knows of the rules going in,” the president told reporters after being asked for his take. “Whether they should remain the rules is a different issue, but the rules are the rules … but I was really proud of the way she responded.”
Actor Seth Rogan, who is known for smoking pot, linked Richardson’s suspension to racism.
“The notion that weed is a problematic ‘drug’ is rooted in racism,” he wrote. “It’s insane that Team USA would disqualify one of this country’s most talented athletes over thinking that’s rooted in hatred. It’s something they should be ashamed of. Also if weed made you fast, I’d be FloJo.”
Even Donald Trump Jr. tweeted, “Let her compete, I’m pretty damn sure weed has never made anyone faster.”
She made her apology during an appearance on NBC’s “Today” show.
“I apologize. As much as I’m disappointed, I know that when I step on the track I represent not only myself, I represent a community that has shown great support, great love,” she said. “I apologize for the fact that I didn’t know how to control my emotions or deal with my emotions during that time.”
