Sha’Carri Richardson nailed her first Olympics race—literally. Yes, the US track star qualified for the semifinals after running the 100-meter heat in just 10.94 seconds, but the 24-year-old did so in a manicure so beautiful it deserves a spot in the Louvre.
Richardson is among many Olympians who have chosen to embrace both beauty and athleticism this year.
“You don’t have to sacrifice your femininity to play any sport,” rugby player Ilona Maher said of why she wears bright red lipstick on the field. “It doesn’t take away from your athletic ability.” Simone Biles feels similarly: The five-time gold medalist chronicled her pre-Paris hair and nail appointments for TikTok and reapplied her setting powder and lip liner amid the artistic gymnastics women’s team final.
So really, it’s no surprise that Sha’Carri Richardson is on Team Beauty too, especially since the Texas native is already known and beloved for her elaborate manicures.
After wearing long, coffin-shaped red, white, and blue nails at the 2024 Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony—with American flag–inspired designs, french tips, and jewels—Richardson changed it up once it came time to compete.
On semifinals race day, Richardson opted for a long stiletto shape for all fingers but her pointer, which nodded to her red, white, and blue vibes from the week before.
Otherwise, each nail resembles its own mesmerizing mosaic, adorned with a variety of vibrant colors and designs, including multicolored gemstones, beads, and intricate patterns.
So far, I spot both leopard print and flames, but the more I look, the more I discover.
With shades of green, orange, pink, and red against black and clear bases, the mani is somehow reminiscent of Lisa Frank and church stained-glass windows at the same time. Her mind!
All I can say is, I seriously can’t wait to see what Sha’Carri Richardson does for the semifinals.
Danielle Sinay is the associate beauty editor at Glamour. Follow her on Instagram @daniellesinay.
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