Track and field has its own heritage and history. Indeed, track and field has been an integral part of many people’s lives and has been a major sport in the Olympic Games for many editions. However, some things, like the women’s 100m and 200m world records, never change, and they have stood firm since the last time Florence Griffith-Joyner touched them and set an everlasting benchmark for future athletes to chase after.

Indeed, the American sprinter was, and still is, an inspiration for many, but despite those who want to chase her accolades, few have come closer to it. FloJo was just too fast for her own grid back in the day, and her records are still fast enough. However, this has also raised many questions in the community about the legality of those records, as fans have consistently expressed mixed opinions in numerous debates. Similarly, a recent look into her 37-year-old accolades has elicited a range of responses from social media users.

Florence Griffith-Joyner’s long-standing records

Florence Griffith-Joyner was just sensational. Not only did she set unbreakable targets, but she also revolutionized the sport. How so? While she was keen on track, she was also a fashionista. Indeed, the outfits that she used to wear in track meets always got the maximum attention from the crowd and even made headlines back then. But why did she do it? “Look good, feel good” was a phrase that she took to heart, and made sure that she made an impression with both her speed and her looks.

Indeed, her charisma radiated everywhere she went. But speed? She never lacked that. Her accolades? A distinct career with three Olympic gold medals, and even a World Championship title. There’s also a lot more to her list of honors, but that’s too much to mention. However, what are some of her most notable accomplishments? FloJo’s 100m and 200m world records are still up there and a force to reckon with, even from the perspective of a modern athlete. 

Both of the world records were achieved in the year 1988. Indeed, the season was brimming with excitement for the Olympic Games, and she understood the most effective way to garner global recognition. Coming to the US Olympic Trials in Indianapolis, she was very confident, and in the 100m qualifying, she ran a blistering 10.49. As if that wasn’t enough, at the Seoul Olympics, in the 200m finals, she ran a 21.34, stunning everyone. While there was no wind involved in her 100m record, a 1.3 tailwind helped her achieve her 200m record.

However, what’s all the discussion about? Notice the 100m world record; as per the reports back then, there was no wind involved in that particular event. Indeed, decades have passed, and the world record continues to stand firm. So, this particular situation has always made the community stir up varied opinions.

Even the track and field community is confused

It’s been a long time since these accolades were achieved, and many in the track and field community have their own terms of doubt. One fan stated, “Her form was pretty impeccable. I watched a video on it a few years ago. The unfortunate thing though is that during this time sooo many athletes were doping. It’s very likely she was too. A part of me wishes they would retire the records made in the 80s.” Some even made stern statements, as one comment read, “100% doper, and a faulty wind gauge.” Similarly, another fan pointed out her 100m record, stating, “Definitely a faulty wind gauge. Lots of runners in that race ran PB’s.”

While FloJo ran a 10.49 in the women’s 100m, which one is the closest time to that? Back in 2021, during the Prefontaine Classic, Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson-Herah ran a blistering 10.54, making her the second fastest woman in the world behind the American runner. The Jamaican’s performances came from a strong carryover from the Olympic Games, where she also secured two gold medals in the 100m and the 200m.

Indeed, the 0.05-second difference is what saved FloJo’s record and made many wonder how fast even she was back then. One fan gave their verdict, stating, “People seem to omit her 200 WR. Sure the wind might’ve been faulty for the 100 wr, but she still ran 21.34 for the 200m wr. Plenty of Women have been on peds, and still haven’t broken that 200m record. Dr*gs or not she was extremely talented.”

Keeping that era in mind, another fan wrote, “She was a great athlete. But I can’t ignore the obvious. She was probably doping. To me it’s not even an open question. So many athletes from all countries, were doping their heads off. We will never have 100% proof. But I don’t need that.”

Undoubtedly, the world records set 37 years ago will raise many questions. The community has ample opportunity to debate this matter. However, no matter the reason, she was that fast; she still has the crown that many modern athletes are chasing.