Track and field has long been labeled an “individualized” sport—where athletes often stand alone, both on the podium and in their journey toward success. Compared to mainstream team sports like football and basketball, which offer structured support systems and financial security, track athletes have traditionally been left to manage much of their careers independently. But now, a major shift is underway. Thanks to innovative competitions and high-profile athlete involvement, track and field is poised for a much-needed revival.
One of the boldest initiatives leading the charge is Grand Slam Track (GST). Launching this year, GST is creating waves with an unprecedented prize structure that could redefine how the sport compensates its stars. The contest will feature four “Slams” throughout the year, and the champion in each individual event will earn $100,000 per win. That’s a staggering $400,000 potential payday in a single season—without even factoring in bonuses, endorsements, or appearance fees. What’s more, GST isn’t just about rewarding winners. Every participant will benefit through promotional opportunities and exposure that have historically been hard to come by in the sport.
To put it simply: GST is offering what no track and field competition has dared to provide before—financial incentive on par with other professional sports. But the revolution doesn’t stop there.
World Athletics, the global governing body of track and field, is also stepping up in a big way. In 2026, the first edition of the World Athletics Ultimate Championships will launch with its own significant payout: $150,000 for each event champion. That figure more than doubles the $70,000 awarded to winners at the 2023 World Athletics Championships. It’s a major leap, indicating that those at the top of the sport are finally acknowledging the need for financial growth and sustainability for athletes.
And behind much of this momentum is one of the sport’s brightest stars—Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. In June 2024, she became the first athlete to sign with GST, lending her credibility and global appeal to the venture. That landmark moment wasn’t just symbolic—it signaled a shift in the sport’s business model. Her endorsement generated widespread buzz, leading to increased attention and a domino effect of announcements related to prize money and athlete support.
In a September 2024 interview with Citius Mag, Sydney expressed her enthusiasm for what GST represents. “I think it’s just going to be really cool to see that dynamic and see the sport grow in popularity, and so I’m excited to be a part of that,” she said. Her optimism hasn’t wavered, as she echoed similar sentiments on the Clearly Reformed podcast: “There are other races taking place every single year and I do think track is on the rise hopefully and it will continue to be until the LA Olympics… just excited to be a part of that.”
Through her voice, influence, and success, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is playing a pivotal role in reshaping the future of track and field. Her support of these new competitions signals a turning point—one that may finally help the sport shed its “individualized” label and embrace a future built on collective growth, financial opportunity, and global popularity.
Track and field may be stepping out of the shadows—and Sydney is leading the way.