Michael Johnson, former Olympic sprinter, has identified a critical need for change in the world of athletics beyond the Olympics. With his initiative, Grand Slam Track, he is determined to revitalize track and field by providing regular exposure and financial security for athletes. Despite record-breaking performances in his career, he acknowledges that the sport's structure has not rewarded sustained success. Johnson stresses the necessity of creating a system that benefits athletes year-round to prevent them from facing financial struggles, unlike their counterparts in other more lucrative sports.
I spent a better part of my career dominating my events, being the fastest in the world, and having to explain to people that I was still racing.
When you have a situation where the athletes are suffering and the fans are suffering and you can fix it, you should fix it.
We have athletes... who literally are taking on jobs at Walmart and suffering financially.
It wasn't a question of talent but of structure.
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