In a shocking turn of events, U.S. Olympic sprinter Fred Kerley, the reigning world 100m champion, has been arrested for allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend, fellow track star Alaysha Johnson. The incident occurred on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at a hotel in Miami, just days before the Grand Slam Track event where Kerley was slated to compete.
According to police reports, Johnson claims that during an encounter at the hotel, Kerley struck her in the face with a closed fist, resulting in a bloody nose. Witnesses reported that the 29-year-old sprinter exhibited aggressive behavior prior to the incident, allegedly stating he was "going to f*** up everyone up in here." This alarming behavior has raised concerns about the athlete’s conduct, especially given his previous legal troubles.
Kerley was booked into Broward County jail and charged with battery, categorized as a first-degree misdemeanor. He was placed on a $1,000 bond, which was still pending as of Friday afternoon, May 2, 2025. Following the incident, Grand Slam Track confirmed that Kerley would not participate in the upcoming events, which include the 100m on Saturday and the 200m on Sunday, with a total prize purse of $100,000 at stake.
"Fred Kerley was arrested last night. The matter is under active investigation, and all inquiries should be directed to the Broward County Sheriff's Office. Fred will not compete this weekend. We have no further comment at this time," stated a representative from Grand Slam Track.
This incident marks a troubling chapter in Kerley’s career, which has been highlighted by significant achievements on the track. He won a silver medal in the 100m at the Tokyo Olympics and followed that with a bronze in the same event at the Paris Olympics last summer. In addition, he claimed gold at the World Athletics Championships, solidifying his status as one of the top sprinters in the world.
However, Kerley’s legal issues have been mounting. Earlier this year, he was arrested for battery after a confrontation with police in Miami Beach, where he allegedly attempted to force his way through a police scene. This incident involved officers wrestling him to the ground and using a Taser to subdue him. Kerley has pleaded not guilty to that charge and faces another domestic battery case from 2024.
Kerley and Johnson, who dated for approximately six months before breaking up in October 2024, were both set to compete in the Grand Slam Track event. Johnson, an accomplished hurdler, was reportedly at the hotel for a conditioning appointment when the confrontation occurred.
In light of the incident, Kerley’s lawyer, Richard L. Cooper, expressed confidence that the case against his client "lacks merit and will be dismissed in short order." Cooper emphasized that Kerley is eager to return to his athletic career and continue inspiring young athletes.
As the situation develops, the track and field community is left to ponder the implications of Kerley’s actions, both for his career and the image of the sport. The Grand Slam Track series, created by four-time Olympic gold medalist Michael Johnson, aims to challenge the established Diamond League circuit, which hosts a larger number of meets globally. With this incident, however, Kerley’s absence from the competition raises questions about the future of the Grand Slam Track and its reputation.
In conclusion, as the investigation continues, the focus remains on the charges against Kerley and the potential impact on his career, as well as the broader implications for athletes in high-pressure environments. The Grand Slam Track event is set to proceed without one of its star competitors, and fans will be left to speculate on what this means for both Kerley and the future of track and field.
