Retired track icon Justin Gatlin has opened up about the financial struggles of track and field athletes, revealing that even the highest-paid stars don’t earn as much as people think.
Speaking on the Draft Kings podcast, Gatlin was asked who he believed had the most lucrative contract in track and field. Without hesitation, he named Olympic champion Noah Lyles, estimating his annual earnings at around $2 million.
“Probably Noah. Before sitting at this pre-season, he was earning probably 2 mil ($2,000,000),” Gatlin said. The host responded with surprise, asking, “That’s it?” to which Gatlin replied, “That’s it bro. And that is historical in our sport.”
Gatlin further explained that athletes face pay cuts depending on their performance at major events like the Olympics and World Championships.
“If you don’t make an Olympic team or a world championships team, they can reduce your contract,” he said. “Like, you start with this amount and realize that because you got fourth or didn’t lean at the line, now you’re getting a $25,000 or $50,000 cut out of your contract. Suddenly, you’re looking at a whole different deal.”
In February 2024, reports surfaced that Lyles extended his contract with Adidas, securing what is allegedly the biggest contract in track and field since Usain Bolt’s retirement.
According to his agency, Global Athletics Management, the six-time world champion will represent Adidas until the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. While financial details remain undisclosed, the deal reportedly includes extensive commitments both on and off the track.
Lyles cemented his status as the world’s fastest man after winning triple gold at the 2023 World Championships and the 100m Olympic gold in Paris last year. At 27, he remains one of the most talked-about and marketable figures in athletics today.
What do you think? Should track and field athletes be earning more? Let’s discuss! ⬇️🔥
