“When people come to see me, they get excited because they know a special moment is going to happen.” This is something the 6x World champion, Noah Lyles said once. Now, it’s really happening! The new documentary series “SPRINT” on Netflix has gained immense traction. The show deeply explores professional sprinters’ lives, following them as they battle it out at Budapest for the World Championships in 2023. With 2.4 million views in its first week, “SPRINT” has risen swiftly in Netflix’s rankings for its enthralling story and charming leads. What’s even more interesting is that it’s risen the stock value of the athletes to stratospheric heights.

For the athletes featured in the series, it’s altering the game and subsequently their digital footprint and not merely providing entertainment. Sprinters like Sha’Carri Richardson, Noah Lyles, Gabby Thomas, Shericka Jackson, and other athletes are witnessing notable increases in their social media followings and it’s a tale to truly tell. This increased prominence may greatly enhance their public appearances and pre-games preparations.

Owen discussed on X how post SPRINT’s release, it influenced athletes’ social media followings. A picture of a list of athletes, along with their marketable social media growth in followers, was included in the tweet. The figures are striking and this was all in part due to their bombastic statements made, their spunk on celluloid and so much more! Although not every one of these followers came from the show, Owen pointed out in his post that there is a certain correlation. However, the media spotlight that “SPRINT” provides is surely a stepping stone pre Olympics.

Furthermore, there is more to the notable increase in social media followers than just numbers. It stands for enhanced fan conversations, brand exposure, media interfacing, aggrandizement of self and a larger platform for inspiration and connection. Coming to the latest deals, now, until the LA 2028 Olympics, Noah Lyles has extended his contract with Adidas, guaranteeing he will continue to wear their clothing. However, on the flip side, Sha’Carri Richardson is unstoppable with her brand agreements, with all of them coming through in quick succession. Her partnerships with brands like Nike, Sprite, Oikos, Powerade, Olay, Beats by Dre, and many more are making headlines before the Paris Olympics and cements her standings too in the grand scheme of things. Let’s delve into yet another case in point.

Notably, rather than finishing her senior year at Harvard, Gabby Thomas took a risk. Before her senior season, she decided to become a professional and signed a contract with New Balance, Nulo, Modern Luxury and Eli Lily have her repertoire secure. This choice was a crucial step in her path. Also, Shericka Jackson was the first Scotia Group brand ambassador. However, their path to the Paris Olympics may benefit greatly from their increased reach as of now, potentially leading to cerebral wins too and unrivalled fan support reaching through the canopy of fame. All athletes have an additional benefactor from “SPRINT,” to thank. Their beloved producer – the man, the myth, the legend himself.

Paul Martin and Noah Lyles go deeper than the finish line

The executive producer of “SPRINT,” Paul Martin, noted the value of spotlighting the individuals who go behind the athletes. Martin talked about the inspiration behind the series in a recent conversation. “These athletes should be more famous,” he stated. “They should be earning more money and taking more of the plaudits.” hinting at the fact that they are overlooked upon in the grand scheme of things and with their journey now on celluloid should not be their only claim to fame, considering how victorious and talented they are.

Additionally, Martin mentioned how Netflix offers an international stage that facilitates the attraction of elite players. “It was a perfect storm to be able to get those names involved in the show,” he continued. The show contains commentary from international stars and legends like Usain Bolt, Ato Boldon, and others alongside American sprinters. “SPRINT” steps to raise their profile and popularize these underdogs by concentrating on their experiences and struggles, hence bringing them more traction in the process.

Moreover, in a conversation, Noah Lyles’ eagerness is noticeable as he discusses the concept of more growth and innovation ahead in Paris. He noted, “I want to show people how far they can really go,” highlighting a path beyond standard success markers. “I don’t want them to stop at medals. Yes, medals are nice, they get your attention. That should be the first stopping point, that should be the first check off the box.” This hints at breaking forth preexisting barriers within the track and field realm and we stand by in solidarity with him as he dreams of reinventing the sport, win by win and spool by spool.

However, an athlete’s goals go beyond the finish line. Noah Lyles clarified, “After you go to medals, now you go to moving outside of the sport,” hinting at the possibility of gaining experience and influence outside of physical accomplishments. His quote, “After you’re outside of the sport, we go and reinvent ourselves,” shows how people are always changing and inspires others to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives. Thus, with the momentum behind them, these sprinters are prepared to give it their all and we doff our hats to SPRINT for acting as a thorough catalyst.