The Biggest Names in Track and Field at the Paris Olympics
As the U.S. track and field roster for the Paris Olympics was announced, the absence of Athing Mu, a renowned middle-distance runner, raised eyebrows. Despite not qualifying at the U.S. trials to defend her 800-meter Olympic title, Mu was expected to be considered for a spot in the relay pool. Unfortunately, due to a torn hamstring and her subsequent recovery, Mu will not be competing in the Paris Games.
The roster, however, features other standout athletes such as Noah Lyles, Sha’Carri Richardson, Gabby Thomas, and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, among more than 100 athletes. Notable Olympians like Ryan Crouser, Katie Moon, and Valarie Allman will also be representing the U.S., each a reigning Olympic champion in their respective disciplines.
One of the most exciting additions to the team is 16-year-old Quincy Wilson, who impressed at the trials with his performance in the 400 meters and secured a place in the relay pool alongside sprinter Christian Coleman.
Despite missing out on this year’s Olympic lineup, Mu played a crucial role in the team’s gold-medal triumph in the 4×400 relay at the Tokyo Games. Meanwhile, Lyles, a dominant force in sprinting, will be leading the U.S. in the 100 and 200 meters, aiming to replicate his success at the world championships last summer.
Another exciting prospect is Sha’Carri Richardson, the reigning 100-meter world champion, who missed the Tokyo Games in 2021 due to a positive marijuana test. With her sights set on gold, Richardson is anticipated to dominate the sprint events in Paris.
Other notable athletes securing their spots in the roster include Karissa Schweizer and Grant Fisher, set to compete in the 5,000- and 10,000-meter races. The trials also saw some shuffling, with Elle St. Pierre opting for the 1,500 meters, leading to Parker Valby focusing solely on the 10,000 and Whittni Morgan earning a spot in the 5,000.
For the full U.S. Track and Field roster, click here.