Fred Kerley to Experience Major Fall in Net Worth as ASICS Backs Out of Multi-Bagger Deal Before Paris Olympics

Fred Kerley has had a head-turning comeback at the 2024 NYC Grand Prix. A month ago, he boldly declared, “World record next time I touch the 100m.” However, making this happen has proven to be quite a challenge, and the recent fiasco at the NYC Grand Prix just added to the drama.

In a surprising turn of events at the USATF NYC Grand Prix, Udodi Onwuzurike secured the men’s 100m title, posting a time of 10.24 seconds (-0.7 wind). He narrowly edged out Kendal Williams, who finished just behind with a time of 10.25 seconds. PJ Austin took third place, crossing the line in 10.26 seconds. Meanwhile, Fred Kerley, who was expected to compete, unexpectedly walked away from the start line due to issues with his blocks.

However, what truly turned heads was Fred Kerley’s actions following his DNS (Did Not Start) in the ASICS-branded men’s 100m at Icahn Stadium. He was spotted carrying Puma spikes with sponsor signage in the background as Lewis attempted a walk-and-talk. This unusual sight sparked speculation and curiosity among fans and pundits alike.

Later, Chris Chavez, the founder of Citius Mag, confirmed in a post on X that he had heard back from a spokesperson for ASICS after Fred Kerley’s appearance at the New York City Grand Prix wearing competitor spikes. The statement by the brand read: “ASICS and Fred Kerley have mutually parted ways and he is no longer an ASICS sponsored athlete. We wish him the best in his career.” 

This development marks a significant shift in Kerley’s professional journey, adding another layer of intrigue to his quest for the world record and determining which sponsor will back the athlete as he aims for the Paris Olympics. Track and field contracts are often hush-hush so the exact figures of his deal with ASICS remain unknown, but this could be a major setback to Fred Kerley’s earnings and net worth if he does not find a sponsor in time for the trials. But known for his bold yet cryptic moves, Kerley has once again captured attention with this dramatic exit. Now, let’s delve into how this journey began and why the future could still be bright for the Olympian.

How it all began

Since finishing at Texas A&M in 2017 as a 400-meter runner, Fred Kerley has built a remarkable career. Initially signed with the Nike swoosh, he swiftly amassed a net worth of $5 million through a combination of prize money and endorsement deals. According to reports, the Texas-based sprinter boasts ownership of an Audi Q7, a 2024 McLaren 750S, and a collection of other high-performance vehicles.

On February 21, 2023, after years with Nike, Kerley signed a new contract with ASICS. He expressed his excitement, stating, “I am excited to join the ASICS athlete roster and compete on behalf of the brand as one of the top sprinters in the world. Ultimately, I hope to inspire more kids to participate in track and field. Partnering with ASICS will only help as we collectively aim to grow the sport into the future.”

Ben Cesar, Director of Sports Marketing at ASICS North America, praised Kerley, saying, “Fred is a world-class talent and an athlete that truly represents the ethos of the ASICS brand. We hope our partnership with Fred will help elevate ASICS’ product offering for athletes both on-and-off the track.”

Traditionally favored by distance runners, ASICS aimed to rebrand as a sprinting powerhouse with athletes like Kerley and Joseph Fahnbulleh. Track and field contracts often remain confidential, but Kerley’s association brought instant credibility to ASICS’s sprint products, underscoring his trust in their quality. However, his career trajectory took unexpected turns after signing with ASICS.

Fred Kerley’s career timeline with both Nike and ASICS:

2017: NCAA/US champion in 400m, signs with Nike

2019: Competes in World Championships 400m

2021: Switches to 100m, wins Olympic silver

2022: Wins World Championships 100m

2023: Signs with ASICS, misses World Championships 100m final

2024: Switches coaches to Quincy Watts, parts ways with ASICS before Olympic Trials

But as we reflect on Kerley’s journey, his recent hint at a potential deal with Puma adds another intriguing layer.

Puma c a bright future for the Olympian

Puma has a storied history in athletics, famously signing Usain Bolt to the largest-ever athletics deal in 2003. Bolt’s renewed contract in 2013 extended through the 2016 Rio Olympics, cementing his legacy with Puma. Shericka Jackson, the fastest woman alive in the 200m, also represents Puma, and Jackson’s prominence highlights Puma’s commitment to top-tier track and field athletes. Earlier this year, Jackson and other legends unveiled Puma’s Jamaican Olympic team kit in Kingston, Jamaica.

With Kerley’s potential move to Puma, parallels to Bolt’s legendary career emerge. However, Kerley faces significant challenges, having been sidelined from both the Stockholm Diamond League and the Oslo Diamond League in the past month. His DNS at the NYC Grand Prix further complicates his path. Will joining Puma rejuvenate Kerley’s career as he approaches the Olympic Trials? Share your thoughts in the comments below!