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Michael Johnson Unveils Grand Slam Track League Aimed at Revitalizing Athletics
Michael Johnson, the legendary U.S. Olympic sprinter, has introduced a groundbreaking initiative in the realm of athletics with the launch of the Grand Slam Track (GST). In an exclusive interview with TMZ Sports, Johnson expressed his enthusiasm for the league and his desire to engage top athletes like Noah Lyles in this venture.
Launched in June, GST seeks to maintain interest in track and field between the Olympic Games. Johnson aims to leverage the excitement generated by the recent Paris Games to spark ongoing enthusiasm and keep fans engaged year-round, rather than just once every four years.
The proposed league will feature 96 athletes competing across various distances, including 100 meters and 200 meters, during four major events scheduled to commence in April 2025. Johnson envisions the format akin to prominent championships in sports such as golf and tennis. He is particularly keen on involving the world’s fastest individuals, with Lyles being a prime candidate for participation, alongside others in the competitive sprinting landscape.
Moreover, Johnson emphasizes the importance of having Lyles’ competitors join the league to foster an exhilarating environment that fans crave. The presence of high-profile rivalries is essential to the league’s appeal, which aims to attract a larger audience of track and field enthusiasts.
In a significant move, Johnson has already appointed Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone as an ambassador for GST, signaling the league’s commitment to featuring elite talent.
As a decorated athlete with four Olympic gold medals, Johnson assures potential participants that lucrative incentives await them. The league promises competitive base compensation and substantial prize money, totaling millions, to attract the best talent in the sport.
While Johnson acknowledges the current state of track and field is promising, he firmly believes that the establishment of Grand Slam Track could elevate the sport and its stars to unprecedented heights, creating a dynamic and sustainable platform for athletics to thrive.
Source
www.tmz.com