Melissa Jefferson-Wooden wins world 100m title, caps a village kid's remarkable rise

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, the self-described village kid from a South Carolina seaport, who had two (partial) college scholarship offers, who saved her dad’s life at age 17, is now the world 100m champion.

Jefferson-Wooden ran way to win in 10.61 seconds, becoming the fourth-fastest woman in history. One year ago, she was the Olympic 100m bronze medalist.

Jamaican Tina Clayton took silver in 10.76, followed by Olympic gold medalist Julien Alfred of Saint Lucia in 10.84.

American Sha’Carri Richardson, the defending world champion from 2023, took fifth in 10.94, her best time of 2025 during a season that was set back from the start due to an injury in February.

TRACK AND FIELD WORLDS: Results | Broadcast Schedule

World Championships highlights, including the women’s and men’s 100m, air Sunday at 3 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. Worlds continue later Sunday with the men’s marathon (6:30 p.m., CNBC and Peacock).

The next finals session in the stadium is Monday at 5:15 a.m. ET (Peacock) and 6:30 a.m. ET (USA Network), featuring the women’s 100m hurdles and men’s pole vault.

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden saved her dad’s life when she was 17 years old.