In an exclusive “TODAY” interview with Savannah Guthrie, Sha’Carri clarified that by sharing how terribly affected she was by the news of her mother’s passing, she wasn’t looking for sympathy or an explanation.
She said that people were unaware of what it was like to hide her pain and put up a brave front for the public. Sha’Carri asked, “Who am I to tell you how to cope when you’re dealing with the pain or you’re dealing with a struggle that you haven’t experienced before or that you thought you never would have to deal with?”
Recognizing his error, Sha’Carri received a one-month penalty from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency and was thus unable to compete in the future Olympics. She candidly admitted, “I know what I did, I know what I’m supposed to do…and I still made that decision.”
In a statement, USA Track and Field expressed their worry and support for her well-being. They underlined how important it was for athletes’ health and wellbeing to come first.
The group also said that they would collaborate with Sha’Carri to make sure she had the tools necessary to overcome any obstacles related to her mental health. Sha’Carri addressed the issue on social media as well.
“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 shared. The athlete added in another post, “All these perfect people that know how to live life, I’m glad I’m not one of them!”
