In an emotional podcast interview with Kareem Bwoyatingz, Janeek Brown, the former Jamaican 100m hurdler, revealed the truth behind her tumultuous relationship with American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson. Speaking openly about her past, Brown shared that her relationship with Richardson played a pivotal role in her coming out as a homosexual.
The two first met at an awards show when Brown was 21 and Richardson 19, and their relationship blossomed during the pandemic. However, Brown described the relationship as toxic, filled with verbal, mental, and physical abuse from both sides. She confessed that their time together was fraught with toxicity, despite Richardson’s public claims of abuse.
“We were both abusive, mentally, verbally, physically… We started out young, and it was rough,” Brown said candidly.
Brown, who ended the two-year relationship in February, emphasized the prevalence of homophobia in track and field, despite its acceptance of many LGBTQ+ athletes. She also denied Richardson’s accusation of theft, stating she never stole from her ex.
Reflecting on the painful experience, Brown noted the significant personal growth she gained from the ordeal. “I would never go back to that situation… It’s been a major growth for me,” she explained, adding that the relationship taught her valuable lessons in self-awareness and public speaking.
Brown also addressed Richardson’s recent Instagram live video defending her, calling it possibly an attempt at damage control. She described Richardson’s behavior as calculated and malicious, mentioning that she had been threatened by her ex and her associates.
Despite the drama, Brown remains focused on moving forward with her life and personal growth, leaving the toxic past behind.
