Paris Olympics: Forced to Hide Money From Event Directors, American Athlete’s Story Resurfaces Amidst Unfair Athlete Pay Debate

Willie Banks is heavily advocating for athletes’ pay. While concerns are being raised about the financial stability of the athletes, several steps have been taken to resolve them recently. After being a 3x Olympian, who better than Banks would know the struggles of being financially vulnerable? Representing the United States, Banks established a triple jump record in 1985 when he jumped 17.97m. Apart from having a decorated senior career, Banks also came second best in consecutive NCAA seasons(1977 & 1978). 

Unfortunately, his financial status was not quite as bright as his career. In fact, in a surprising recollection, Banks revealed having rolled up a $100. Reflecting on the incident, the American triple jumper stated that took that money from the meet directors and immediately hid it to prevent himself from getting caught. Thus, it is no wonder, that Banks is now actively questioning in favor of the athletes making some money. 

Willie Banks speaks about the importance of athletes’ pay

Willie Banks is now a board member of the USA Track and Field. In what was a surprising revelation, Banks pointed out that the organization was looking for ways to include the top athletes in the payroll. Elaborating further, the Olympic triple jumper stated that the main aim was to provide the athletes with money to support their livelihood. While the 68-year-old did not lay out the exact plan that was in the making, he laid stress on the money-making aspect of the sport. 

Banks mentioned that without proper financial backing, the sport as a whole would cease to grow. On being asked how the entire system would pan out, the 68-year-old cited the example of the Major League Soccer. Back in 1994, Banks worked as a deputy venue director at Pasadena Rose Bowl for FIFA.

After realizing that the soccer players were missing on a base salary, they initiated the process and the rest is history. Thus, at a time when even the top athletes are struggling to make money, such statements from Willie Banks are certainly like a breath of fresh air. Recently, Usain Bolt also demanded a huge sum of money that he felt he missed out on. 

Usain Bolt demands $325,000 for his Olympic gold triumphs 

The World Athletics President, Sebastian Coe, recently made a historic announcement. For the first time, the athletes winning an Olympic gold in Paris would be awarded a monetary reward of $50000. However, soon after the announcement, 8x Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt made an interesting tweet. 

Taking to his X account, Bolt shared the World Athletics post and demanded $325,000 for his eight medals. He further broke it down as $50000 for each of his 7 gold medals and $25000 for the one that he won in the 4x100m relays. Thus, with the realm buzzing with the issue of fair payments, the scenario looks promising.