‘Done Phenomenal Things’- Kishane Thompson Pays Homage to Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Ahead of Retirement

2025’s fastest man, Kishane Thompson, has paid heartfelt tribute to Jamaican sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce as she prepares to close the curtain on her storied career following the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September.

After securing her spot at the World Championships during the national trials in Kingston last June, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce confirmed it was the last time she would compete on home soil—signaling Tokyo would mark her final major championship. 

The five-time world 100m champion finished third behind rising stars Tina Clayton and Shericka Jackson, earning a deserved place on the Jamaican team one final time.

Now, as a new generation of sprinters step into the global spotlight, Thompson—one of the most electrifying young talents in track and field—took a moment to honor Fraser-Pryce’s legacy during an interview with NBC Sports' Katelyn Hutchinson.

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"The track and field world truly appreciates you. You’ve done phenomenal things," Thompson said, paying homage to the woman who has inspired countless athletes for nearly two decades.

At just 23 years old, Thompson is already proving himself as a force to be reckoned with. On Saturday, he delivered a commanding performance in the men’s 100 metres at the Prefontaine Classic in Oregon, clocking 9.85 seconds to win his first title at the prestigious meet.

 It was only his second appearance at Hayward Field, but one that confirmed his growing stature on the world stage.

The win capped a phenomenal eight-day stretch for the Jamaican, who had just come off a personal best of 9.75 seconds- becoming the sixth fastest man of all time - to clinch his second consecutive national title—a performance that has solidified his status as a leading medal contender for the upcoming Paris Olympics.

Despite a less-than-perfect start in Oregon, Thompson showcased remarkable maturity and poise, surging ahead in the final 30 metres to beat Great Britain’s Zharnel Hughes (9.91) and American Trayvon Bromell (9.94).

Reflecting on his rise and future, Thompson remained grounded yet confident:

"For me, it’s not really a big deal right now. I know greater things are in store for me. It won’t truly sink in until I reach the full potential I know I’m capable of. I’m just focused on constantly getting better and better—that’s just who I am."

"I don’t set any limits for myself. Doing that would mean ignoring all the talent and ability I know I have. So for me, it’s always about progress—getting better and better from here on out."

"It really comes down to trusting myself, believing in my coach, and just continuing to put in that work, day in and day out."

As one legend prepares to bid farewell, another star is clearly on the rise. And if the past few weeks are any indication, Kishane Thompson is only just getting started.