Olympic sprinter Gabby Thomas has opened up about the harsh financial realities of being a professional track and field athlete, describing it as an “eat what you kill” industry. Despite the glitz and glory that comes with standing on the podium, Thomas revealed that the financial demands of competing at the highest level often place significant strain on athletes, with little guarantee of financial security.
Thomas, who won bronze in the 200 meters and silver in the 4×100-meter relay at the Tokyo Olympics, shared that she invested nearly $100,000 preparing for her Olympic debut. The expenses included coaching fees, physical therapy, travel, and training camps. Unlike athletes in team sports who receive guaranteed contracts, track and field competitors often bear these costs upfront, gambling on their future performance. If they fail to reach the podium or secure endorsement deals, they risk falling into debt.
This pay-to-play system creates a precarious financial landscape. Prize money from competitions is inconsistent, and sponsorship deals are often reserved for top-tier athletes, leaving many struggling to make ends meet. Even Olympians who bring home medals may find themselves with modest earnings compared to athletes in more lucrative sports.
Thomas has been vocal about the need for structural reforms in track and field. She advocates for increased financial support for athletes, such as stipends, funding for coaching and travel, and a more sustainable prize distribution system. She believes that easing the financial burden would allow more athletes to focus on their training and performance, rather than worrying about how to fund their careers.
Her candid revelations offer a glimpse into the less glamorous side of professional sports—a world where even world-class athletes must sometimes gamble their savings on a shot at glory. Thomas’ call for change underscores the need for greater equity and financial security in track and field, ensuring that talent, not financial privilege, determines an athlete’s success.