Top 5 Fastest Female Athletes of All Time
The world of track and field has witnessed extraordinary female athletes who have pushed the boundaries of human speed, here are the top 5 Fastest Female Athletes of All Time.
5. Florence Griffith-Joyner (Flo Jo)
Often hailed as the fastest woman ever, Florence Griffith-Joyner, or “Flo Jo,” redefined sprinting in the late 1980s.
Her world records in the 100 meters (10.49 seconds) and 200 meters (21.34 seconds), set at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, remain untouched. Flo Jo’s unique blend of speed, power, and style made her an iconic figure in the sport.
Flo-Jo’s distinctive blend of fashion and sport established her as a cultural icon, a legacy that endures today. In 2021, tennis star Serena Williams highlighted Flo-Jo’s lasting influence by wearing a one-legged catsuit at the Australian Open, reminiscent of the sprinter’s signature look during her record-breaking 1988 season.
4. Elaine Thompson-Herah
A dominant force in recent years, Elaine Thompson-Herah has come closest to challenging Flo Jo’s records. Her Olympic gold medals and world-class times, including a 10.54 seconds in the 100 meters, solidify her position as one of the greatest sprinters of all time.
Elaine Thompson-Herah withdrew from the Jamaican trials and did not participate in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
3. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce
Known for her explosive starts, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is a multiple Olympic and World Champion. Her consistency and speed, coupled with her charismatic personality, have made her a global icon. With a personal best of 10.63 seconds in the 100 meters, she ranks among the fastest women ever.
2. Carmelita Jeter
Carmelita Jeter’s 10.64 seconds in the 100 meters at the 2009 World Championships cemented her place among the world’s elite sprinters. Her exceptional speed and competitive drive made her a formidable opponent on the track.
1. Marion Jones
While her career was later marred by controversy, Marion Jones’s athletic achievements cannot be ignored. She held world records in both the 100 meters and 200 meters and won multiple Olympic medals. Her speed and talent were undeniable.
These five extraordinary athletes have pushed the limits of human speed and continue to inspire generations of sprinters.