On Sunday, September 21, 2025, the Japan National Stadium in Tokyo seemingly pulsed with electrical energy as Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce stepped onto the track for her final 4x100m relay race . The crowd’s anticipation was palpable, knowing they were witnessing the swansong of a legend at the World Athletics Championships.

With a career spanning over 15 years, the Jamaican had rewritten the record books, defying age and expectations to remain a dominant force in the sprinting world.

Fraser-Pryce’s path to greatness was paved with determination and perseverance. Growing up in the Waterhouse community, which is oftentimes associated with social and economic problems, she faced numerous challenges, but her passion for athletics drove her to succeed.

She won sprint relay silver at the 2007 World Championships in Osaka, Japan, but truly burst onto the international scene in 2008, claiming gold in the 100m final at the Beijing Olympics. With each victory, she solidified her status as arguably the greatest woman sprinters of all time.

As Fraser-Pryce returned to the island on Monday night, she was greeted with a warm welcome from GraceKennedy, a prominent financial services provider in the Caribbean for which she is a brand ambassador.

Fraser-Pryce stood tall in the VIP Lounge at the Norman Manley International Airport, her voice filled with conviction as she shared an inspiring message.

“These last couple of years have been nothing short of amazing. I don’t think it’s just for me, but for others too. We’re all chasing something, we all have a dream, and we’re all looking for that something more,” the 38-year-old Fraser-Pryce said.

She paused, her eyes scanning the room, before continuing: “If you only start, it’s just a start. And I know that there are a lot of persons who are afraid of a start because of how it looks. Sometimes our blessings come in a bottle or wrapped in thorns, with obstacles, hurdles, and storms. But they don’t last forever. It’s up to us to find our way through them.”

The “Pocket Rocket” as she is affectionately called, Fraser-Pryce’s achievements extend far beyond her impressive medal count. She is the oldest woman to win a World Championship 100m title, a feat she achieved in 2022 at 35. She became the first mother to claim a global 100m title in 24 years, inspiring countless young athletes. Her record-breaking performances have redefined the limits of human potential.

Through her Pocket Rocket Foundation, Fraser-Pryce has provided opportunities for young athletes and supported children’s homes across Jamaica. Her commitment to giving back has made her a beloved figure in Jamaican society.

Fraser-Pryce’s expression turned reflective as she spoke of her own journey.

“It has been an amazing beginning and amazing chapter in a part of the book and to be able to share the moment with upcoming queens is also remarkable. I remember in 2007 when I started in Osaka, I was so intimidated by all the other athletes. But I’m hoping that with me being here in this moment, they’ll be inspired. There’s so much for them to achieve, and they only have to go for it. Nobody tells you when, where, or how. Only you do,” said Fraser-Pryce.

“I continue to celebrate the moment for what it is, because it’s such rich history that we all have. You guys spoke of all the achievements I’ve had on the track, but it’s not just about me. It’s about so many other Jamaican athletes who came before me,” Fraser-Pryce said as she beamed with pride.

As she finished speaking, the room erupted in applause; Fraser-Pryce is more than just a champion athlete — she is a beacon of inspiration, shining brightly for generations to come.

Sports Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange, later paying tribute to Fraser-Pryce, said, “Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has been nothing but a phenomenal athlete, a wonderful mother, and a great daughter of Jamaica.”

Grange highlighted Shelly-Ann’s remarkable contributions to Jamaica.

“Your significant contribution to Jamaica, Shelly-Ann, through your unparalleled athletic achievements, is already inspiring a generation of young Jamaicans and has elevated the country’s profile globally. We are very proud of you.

“You have retired from World Championships, the Olympics, and I don’t know if you are retired from running but just to say that you have a lot more in you. We look forward to seeing what your next steps will make,” the sports minister said with a smile on her face. “May God bless you, and we love you.”

Gail Moss-Solomon, GraceKennedy chief legal counsel and corporate secretary, also stepped forward to pay tribute to Fraser-Pryce.

“Over the years, you have been our ‘Pocket Rocket,’ then became ‘Mommy Rocket,’ and we have seen you launch businesses and brands. And now, you are in your Rocket Era, and we love that. Your career has been extraordinary. We honour you as a role model for young boys and girls, reminding them that greatness demands sacrifice, that setbacks are a part of the journey, and that loving what you do and who you are gives you strength,” Moss-Solomon said.

“Thank you so much for carrying the GraceKennedy and Jamaica brands with pride. You’re more than just a brand ambassador — you’re a living example of everything that is good. As you close this chapter of your book, we know that whatever the next chapter goes, the GraceKennedy family will be with you by your side. We will continue to support you, cheer for you, partner with you, and celebrate with you,” Moss-Solomon said.

Jamaica’s sprint Queen Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (left) hugs her mother Maxine Simpson during a welcome reception for the sprinter in the VIP Lounge at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston on Monday. (Photos: Naphtali Junior)

FRASER-PRYCE… it has been an amazing beginning and amazing chapter

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce waves to well-wishers who turned up to welcome her in the VIP Lounge at Norman Manley International Aiport on Monday.

Jamaica’s sprint great Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (right) shares in a lively exchange with Gail Moss-Solomon, GraceKennedy’s chief legal counsel and corporate secretary, during a reception on Monday.

Sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (centre) is flanked by Sports Minister Olivia Grange (left); and Margaret Campbell, CEO, GraceKennedy Money Services, inside the VIP Lounge at Norman Manley International Airport on Monday.