Jamaican track star Danielle Williams became the first Jamaican athlete to win a category and walk away with $100,000, at the inaugural Grand Slam Track Series in Kingston, Jamaica
The two-time world champion blazed to victory in the women’s 100m with 11.54 seconds. She narrowly beat Ackera Nugent who clocked 11.57, with Jasmine Quinn finishing third in 11.75seconds.
She finished second in the hurdles, behind America’s Tia Jones, setting up a strong comeback. Williams’ back-to-back podiums earned 20 points, winning the Short Hurdles and claim $100,000 prize.
Representing Jamaica, a nation known for its sprinting royalty like Elaine Thompson-Herah and Shericka Jackson, Williams has carved out her own legacy. With world championship golds in 2015 and 2023 and a bronze in 2019, she continues to extend her dominance.
Beyond her track accolades, Williams’ journey is deeply rooted in pride and representation. A proud alumna of Johnson C. Smith University, an HBCU in North Carolina, she has defied odds stacked against athletes from smaller NCAA Division II programs.
“Coming from an HBCU and a Division II school… it’s definitely another source of pride of mine,” she once shared as quoted by Essentially Sports.
Williams has recorded personal bests of 11.24 seconds in the 100m and 12.32 in the 100m hurdles. With her Grand Slam Track win, she now adds a major paycheck and global spotlight to her growing résumé. But for Williams, this is just the beginning.
“We’re a proud nation, and they love winners,” she said post-race.
“When it comes to the championship and you put on your country’s gear… it’s more pride, there’s more on the line.”
As the Grand Slam Track Series heads to Miami for its second leg, all eyes will be on Williams.