'I owe everything to the sport'- Michael Johnson explains why he launched Grand Slam Track league

'I owe everything to the sport'- Michael Johnson explains why he launched Grand Slam Track league

Abigael Wafula 19:05 - 25.09.2024

American sprint legend Michael Johnson has opened up about the reasons for his decision to start the lucrative Grand Slam Track league.

American sprint legend Michael Johnson has explained the main reason behind coming up with the Grand Slam Track league set to be launched in 2025.

The four-time Olympic champion explained that all that he has managed to achieve is thanks to running and the best way to give back is to help athletes make a name for themselves.

Michael Johnson pointed out that the track league will focus on the format of being like the tennis Grand Slams and will have four major events each year.

“I’ve always stayed close to the sport, I owe everything that I have to the sport. I’ve always wanted to be in a position to help those athletes. As an entrepreneur and investor myself, I decided to invest in my own sport,” Michael Johnson said.

“So, I started Grand Slam Track and we launch next year and 2025 will be our first season. I built it in the mould of some of the tennis Grand Slams, the four golf majors. So, four major events every year,” he added.

The eight-time world champion explained that Grand Slam Track’s major focus will mainly feature American athletes and will look to promote the sport in the US. However, he was quick to note that athletes from other countries will also be featured.

So far, top athletes who have confirmed participation in the track league include Melissa Jefferson, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Josh Kerr and Yared Nuguse. Fred Kerley and Kenny Bednarek have also confirmed participation.

Michael Johnson pointed out that what was witnessed at the Paris Olympic Games will be seen at the track league.

“We are heavily focused on the US but our athletes come from all over the world and it’s the fastest athletes competing against one another so for all of the things that you saw in Paris at the Olympics, the stories, the great athletes in the head-to-head competition is what we are providing to fans around the world for this great sport of track,” Michael Johnson said.

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