Allyson Felix targets Olympic spot for 2028 Los Angeles Games

Allyson Felix, a seven-time Olympic gold medalist, plans to compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The 40-year-old athlete has announced her intention to return to competition after retiring following the Tokyo Olympics with 11 Olympic medals.

In an interview published on Monday, Felix stated that she had been advised not to pursue a comeback at her age. However, she chose to disregard this advice and instead decided to “flip it on its head” and attempt to compete again. Felix emphasized that she would be vulnerable in pursuing this goal, but felt compelled to do so.

Felix has been an outspoken advocate for athletes who become mothers and want to continue their careers. She expressed a desire to experience the excitement of competing at home, which was not possible during her previous Olympics. As a member of the LA28 Organizing Committee Athletes’ Commission, Felix will need to navigate the US track and field qualification system before being considered for the Games.

Felix has been a leading advocate for women in sport, breaking with longtime sponsor Nike after the birth of her first child. She later co-founded Saysh, a women’s footwear and apparel company. The athlete cited inspiration from athletes who have continued competing into their 40s, including Tom Brady, LeBron James, and Lindsey Vonn.

Felix’s decision to compete at the 2028 Olympics is not yet guaranteed, as she will need to meet the qualification requirements for the US track and field team.

Source: Al Jazeera