Everything you need to know about Olympic champion Melissa Jefferson-Wooden.
Olympic 100 meter bronze medalist Melissa Jefferson-Wooden has carved her niche in the world of athletics.
The 23-year old athlete, who was born in Georgetown, South Carolina on February 21, 2001, has risen to prominence as one of the most elite female sprinters of her generation.
Jefferson-Wooden, who trains at Star Athletics under the guidance of Dennis Mitchell, and given she is teammates with other athletes like Sha’Carri Richardson, her H journey from a promising young athlete to a global sensation is a testament to her dedication, talent, and unyielding spirit.
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Early life and education
Melissa's passion for athletics was evident from a young age. She showcased exceptional talent in track and field events during her school years.
Her dedication to the sport earned her a spot at Coastal Carolina University, where she competed for the Chanticleers. It was here that she continued developing as a sprinter, setting the stage for what would be a remarkable career in the sport.
Career highlights and records
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Melissa’s career took off in 2022 when she won the NCAA indoor 60m championship, which set her on a path for her successful outdoor track and field championship season that summer, where she cliched her 100m title.
Her performance qualified her for the World Athletics Championships in Eugene that summer, where she won her first gold medal as part of the women’s 4 by 100m team representing the USA.
The following years saw Melissa achieving new milestones. In 2023, she contributed to the U.S. team's victory in the 4x100m relay at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest.
Her personal best of 10.80 seconds in the 100m, achieved at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials, solidified her position as one of the fastest women in the world. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, she won a bronze medal in the 100m and a gold medal as part of the 4x100m relay team.
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In 2025, shortly after she got married, she started her outdoor season on a high by winning both the 100m and 200m races at the inaugural Grand Slam Track event in Kingston, Jamaica.
Her consistent performances have not only brought her accolades but also established her as a role model for aspiring athletes.
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Net Worth
As of 2025, Melissa Jefferson-Wooden's estimated net worth stands at approximately $400,000. Her earnings are a combination of prize money from competitions, endorsements, and sponsorship deals.
Signing with top-tier brands like Nike has significantly boosted her financial stability, providing her with both monetary benefits and essential support in terms of sports equipment and exposure.
Melissa's marketability has been enhanced by her engaging personality and growing popularity. Her achievements on the track, coupled with her ability to connect with fans, make her an attractive candidate for diverse opportunities beyond athletics.
With her career trajectory, her net worth is expected to grow in the coming years.
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Husband
In March 2023, Melissa married Rolan Wooden II in a beautiful ceremony in Florida. The event was attended by fellow Olympians and close friends such as Sha’Carri Richardson and Twanisha ‘Tee Tee’ Terry.
The couple resides in Florida, where they continue to support each other's endeavors.
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Saving her father
Melissa’s father Melvin is truly indebted to his daughter for his life. In 2017, at the age of 58, he started feeling excessively tired, which led them to go to the doctor. A bone marrow biopsy in February 2018 showed he had myelodysplastic syndrome — an early form of leukemia.
The condition he had, the bone marrow, wasn’t producing enough white blood cells needed for the immune system. He needed a bone marrow transplant; he needed a donor.
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As the search went on, he had to undergo chemotherapy and more bone marrow biopsies for analysis, which, mind you, are quite painful in themselves. No perfect match was found, that is, until a minor 17-year-old Melissa volunteered.
Eventually, after a long battle, he became cancer-free.
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Legacy
Melissa Jefferson-Wooden's journey is a source of inspiration for many. Her dedication to her craft, resilience in the face of challenges, and ability to balance personal and professional life serve as a blueprint for success.
As she continues to break records and achieve new milestones, her legacy as one of the greatest sprinters of her time is firmly cemented.
Melissa's story is not just about athletic achievements; it's about perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of excellence. Her impact extends beyond the track, inspiring a new generation of athletes to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals.
As she continues to shine on the world stage, her story serves as a reminder that with talent, dedication, and the right opportunities, greatness is within reach.