On June 8, 2025, at the Racers Grand Prix, Shericka Jackson blazed through the 200m in 22.53 seconds, a season best that matched Anavia Battle’s recent winning time.
With a favorable +1.0 m/s tailwind, Jackson outpaced competitors Audrey Leduc (22.80s) and Caisja Chandler (22.92s), proving her dominance yet again. But for some fans, it wasn’t enough.
Accustomed to her sub-22-second brilliance, critics questioned whether Jackson was losing her edge. After all, this is the same athlete who holds a personal best of 21.41s, the second-fastest time in history.
Justin Gatlin’s Veteran Perspective
Amidst the noise, Olympic champion Justin Gatlin offered a different take. In a YouTube analysis, Gatlin defended Jackson’s run, emphasizing strategy over speed.
“She literally ran the same time that Anavia Battle ran, and she won her race with a 22.53,” Gatlin noted.
“We’re used to watching Shericka run amazing times and do amazing things on the track in the 100 and the 200.”
For Gatlin, matching Battle’s time is a proof she’s right on track for the bigger battles ahead.
“As a veteran, you have to know how to land the plane,” he explained.
“Landing the plane means peaking at the right time, not using all your energy to prove you’re ready now.”
Gatlin says Jackson isn’t fading, she’s pacing herself for the Jamaican Nationals and World Championships, where making the team and securing a podium finish matter most.
“Be ready to run on the day that counts,” Gatlin said.
“Make the team, get on that podium at the World Championships, that’s a successful season.”
Coach Rob’s Harsh Critique
Not everyone shares Gatlin’s optimism. In a recent report by Chase Athletics, Coach Rob, a prominent track analyst, delivered a blunt assessment of Jackson’s form.
“The idea of Shericka breaking the world record in the 200m needs to be relinquished completely at this point in her career,” he stated on his platform, Coach Rob Track & Field.
“She should focus on securing any medal, and even that is not guaranteed.”
He went further, suggesting Jackson’s preparation may be lagging.
“Shericka doesn’t look like she started her speed program yet.”
Jackson’s Path Forward
With the World Championships looming, Jackson’s 22.53s is a calculated move. Gatlin’s insight paints her as a seasoned tactician, conserving energy for when it matters most.
Fans may crave record-shattering performances, but veterans know better. The true test comes when the stakes are highest.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Jackson.
