In a candid discussion that has sparked debate in the world of athletics, sprinting legends Donovan Bailey, Asafa Powell, and Justin Gatlin recently criticized the track and field establishment for what they described as a “slavery mentality” in their treatment of retired athletes. Speaking out about the lack of respect, financial support, and recognition afforded to track and field legends, these former champions called on governing bodies to improve conditions for athletes after they retire from competition.
The Problem: Lack of Support and Respect for Retired Athletes
Donovan Bailey, the Canadian 100-meter gold medalist from the 1996 Olympics, joined forces with two other sprint icons—Jamaican record holder Asafa Powell and former world champion Justin Gatlin from the United States—to address what they view as systemic issues in the sport. Bailey did not mince words, suggesting that track and field authorities hold onto a “slavery mentality,” in which the contributions of former athletes are disregarded once they step off the track. This attitude, Bailey argues, is particularly damaging in a sport that demands rigorous physical and mental dedication, often at a significant personal cost.
“Athletes put their bodies on the line, they generate excitement and bring in fans,” Bailey said, pointing out the sacrifices athletes make in training and competition. “Yet, after retirement, it feels like they are simply discarded, with little regard for the legacy they leave behind.” Bailey’s statement reflects a broader frustration among many athletes who feel they are undervalued, especially compared to other sports where retired stars are often celebrated, financially rewarded, and supported.
A Widespread Issue: Stories from Powell and Gatlin
Asafa Powell, known for his former world record in the 100 meters and his significant contribution to Jamaican sprinting dominance, echoed Bailey’s sentiments. Powell pointed out that many retired track and field stars face financial instability and are often left without the support they need to transition to life after sports. Unlike sports such as basketball, football, or even tennis, where retired athletes are often treated as ambassadors of the game and given opportunities to engage with the next generation, track and field legends often lack similar channels and financial backing.
Powell stated, “We need more opportunities for legends of the sport to stay involved and help mentor younger athletes. Instead, they’re pushed to the side, treated like they’ve outlived their usefulness.” Powell’s words struck a chord with Gatlin, who shared his experience of facing similar challenges and disappointment after leaving competitive sprinting. Gatlin, who has remained a divisive figure in the sport due to his doping controversies, pointed out that even athletes who remain in the sport’s good graces receive limited opportunities and acknowledgment.
Financial Hardships and Limited Career Options
One of the core issues highlighted by Bailey, Powell, and Gatlin is the financial instability that many athletes face upon retirement. Unlike some professional sports that offer substantial retirement plans, pensions, or lifetime endorsement deals, track and field athletes often rely solely on competition earnings and sponsorships, which disappear once their performance declines. Bailey compared this to what he called a “disposable athlete mentality,” where sports organizations focus only on the active years of an athlete’s career, failing to provide support or career transition resources for life after competition.
This financial instability is compounded by the fact that track and field, despite its global popularity, lacks the robust commercial sponsorships that allow athletes to secure long-term financial stability. “Track and field stars are superstars for a few short years, and then they’re left to fend for themselves,” Gatlin explained. He expressed frustration that the sport’s stakeholders, including the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), could do more to set up programs to help retired athletes stay financially stable and active in the sport. Gatlin’s words highlight the disparity between athletics and other sports, where long-term endorsement deals and pensions provide athletes with a safety net.
Calls for Change: Recognition, Financial Support, and Mentorship Programs
Bailey, Powell, and Gatlin all emphasized the need for reform in track and field, starting with better financial provisions for retired athletes. They proposed setting up a pension or savings program that would be available to athletes once they retire from the sport. The idea is to create a system that allows athletes to prepare for life after track and field, reducing the financial burden they face once their peak performance years are over.
In addition to financial support, the trio advocated for mentorship and career transition programs. According to Bailey, former athletes possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that could greatly benefit the next generation of competitors. “There’s no reason why retired athletes shouldn’t be a bigger part of the sport’s future,” he said. By establishing mentorship programs, track and field could tap into the expertise of former champions, creating a legacy that extends beyond individual careers.
Bailey and his counterparts also believe that legends of the sport should be treated with greater respect and visibility. Powell noted how other sports leagues regularly honor past stars during major events, giving fans an opportunity to remember their achievements and respect their contributions. He suggested that track and field adopt a similar approach, possibly including ceremonial roles or positions within governing bodies for retired athletes who wish to stay involved.
The Road Ahead: Hope for a More Inclusive Future
The conversation between Bailey, Powell, and Gatlin has shone a spotlight on the issues faced by track and field legends after their active years. Their call for a more respectful, supportive, and financially inclusive environment for retired athletes has resonated with many in the sporting community, including fans and former athletes who have voiced similar concerns.
While it remains to be seen whether governing bodies like the IAAF will heed these calls for reform, the collective voice of these three influential athletes has the potential to spark change. Bailey concluded the discussion by stating, “The track gave us everything, but it can take everything away just as quickly. It’s time the sport acknowledges this and does right by its legends.”
As the debate continues, Bailey, Powell, and Gatlin hope that their plea will lead to positive action, benefiting not only current and former athletes but also the sport itself. By fostering a culture that values its champions, track and field can create a future that respects and supports those who have dedicated their lives to the sport, even after they step off the track.