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Tara Davis Woodhall and husband Hunter Woodhall have recently sparked a feud with American track legend Michael Johnson.
American sprint icon Justin Gatlin has commented on the story that has left the athletics world abuzz following remarks by American sprint legend Michael Johnson that have sparked a fiery debate with track and field power couple Hunter Woodhall and Tara Davis-Woodhall.
Johnson, renowned for his dominance on the track, faced criticism for omitting field events from his ambitious Grand Slam Track League initiative.
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11:57 - 29.11.2024
'The sport does not need you'- Tara Davis-Woodhall, husband Hunter Woodhall slam Michael Johnson following controversial comment
A furious Tara Davis-Woodhall and her husband Hunter Woodhall have blasted Michael Johnson over his comments on why he snubbed field events in his Grand Slam Track League.
Women's Olympic long jump champion Davis-Woodhall expressed her frustration, emphasizing that track and field are inseparable as she went further, criticizing Johnson for not doing more to uplift the sport during his active years and suggesting he should stay away now that he has retired.
Johnson’s remarks appear to have stemmed from his focus on creating a sprint-centric platform, which he believes aligns with his expertise and past successes.
However, his comments have been perceived by many as dismissive of field events, a critical aspect of the sport that deserves equal recognition and support.
Gatlin weighed in on the controversy, offering a nuanced perspective. He acknowledged Johnson’s intentions to innovate but questioned whether his approach alienates the broader athletics community.
"Michael spoke his truth... but maybe he doesn't know much about the field side to make it successful," Gatlin said in a recent episode of the Ready Set Go podcast.
Gatlin also suggested that Johnson’s comments could serve as a challenge for field-event legends to step up and create their own platforms.
Gatlin further noted the importance of unity in the sport, especially during a period of transition.
"Right now, in the changing of the guards with track and field, more unity is better than division," he remarked.
The backlash from the Davis-Woodhalls has amplified discussions about the disparity between track and field events in terms of visibility and support.
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14:45 - 13.12.2024
'I can't knock it' - American sprints legend validates Noah Lyles' concern for joining Michael Johnson Grand Slam
Noah Lyles is global superstar and money has never been part of his desire to join the Grand Slam
While Johnson’s Grand Slam Track League aims to revolutionize the sport, critics argue that true progress can only be achieved by embracing all its facets equally.
As the debate continues, the track and field community is left grappling with how to balance innovation with inclusivity, ensuring every athlete, whether on the track or in the field, feels valued and represented.
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