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Debate

Will Grand Slam Track's prize money lure more top athletes away from the traditional Diamond League?

Michael Johnson-led Grand Slam track promises to revolutionize track and field. Modeled after tennis’s four yearly Grand Slams, this tournament has everyone buzzing—and for good reason. The prize money on offer is astronomical, easily outshining the Diamond League. But it’s not just the cash that’s turning heads; it’s the star power they’re signing.

Right from the jump, Grand Slam Track made their intentions clear by locking in Olympic gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. Sydney’s signing was a major flex, setting the tone for the tournament’s ambition. “Michael’s vision is clear, and he’s exactly the leader this sport needs to break new ground,” she said, clearly fired up about the competition’s potential to revolutionize the sport.

And they didn’t stop there. The league has been on a recruiting spree, with the latest signing being a blockbuster. On October 15th, Grand Slam Track secured Grant Fisher, the two-time Olympic bronze medalist and American record holder in the 3000m and 5000m. Fisher’s addition is a game-changer. He’ll be squaring off against the likes of Ronald Kwemoi in these events across all four slams, making for some electric showdowns.

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It seems like he’s excited to be part of the tournament, too. In a press release, he said, “I’m thrilled to be part of Grand Slam Track, which I believe is the future of our sport.” His signing also comes alongside Nikki Hiltz, whom they signed as part of the 800m and 1500m categories.

Hiltz is another step in the direction of success, as they are one of the best athletes in the 1500m category. With three national titles in two years, the American athlete can be earmarked as one of the favorites to win the $100,000 cash. Speaking about the league in a press release, they said that the fact that the athletes could compete regularly in elite meets like these Slams is a great opportunity. Thus, their involvement was a no-brainer.

With track stars of such high level believing in the vision, there must be something special to the league. The Grand Slam Track has convinced numerous top athletes now to join their league, which is what makes for such an interesting competition. Fans can see their favorites race when they tune in to watch. At the end of the day, that’s the only thing they want.

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Will Grand Slam Track's prize money lure more top athletes away from the traditional Diamond League?

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Athletes who have signed on for the Grand Slam Track

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Numerous athletes have already signed up for the Michael Johnson-led tournament other than Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. This is what has raised the profile of the competition. One of their most interesting acquisitions was the 100-meter hurdle trio of Masai Russell, Cyrena Samba-Mayela, and Jasmine Camacho-Quinn. These track stars won the gold, silver, and bronze in the Paris Olympics this year. Thus, getting the three athletes who are definitely the best in their category is a major sign of things to come.

via Reuters

Joining the sprint squad are speed maestros Kenny Bednarek and Fred Kerley, who lit up the Paris track. Bednarek snagged silver in the 200m, while Kerley grabbed bronze in the 100m. And it’s not just sprints that are getting some shine—Olympic gold medalists Cole Hocker and Yared Nuguse are onboard too, ready to make waves in the middle-distance category.

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But wait, it gets better. Grand Slam Track is locking in full Olympic podiums! Josh Kerr, who took silver at the Olympics, is stepping up alongside Fisher, Ronald Kwemoi, and Nikki Hiltz. The anticipation is through the roof, with fans crossing their fingers for Noah Lyles to jump into the mix.

With such heavy hitters on the roster, GST is shaping up to be the track event to watch next year. So, what do you think about the latest signings? Ready to see some fireworks on the track? Let us know in the comments!

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