Allyson Felix: Safety of Women Athletes ‘A Real Problem’

Allyson Felix, the most decorated track and field athlete of all time with 20 World Championship and 11 Olympic medals, is now using her platform to advocate for women’s rights, particularly focusing on maternal health.

As violence against women athletes continues to cast a shadow over the sport, Felix has voiced deep concerns about the safety of women athletes around the world.

Reflecting on the tragic death of fellow Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, who was killed by her boyfriend in Kenya, Felix expressed her worry: “There has to be a change in the culture. Something is not right, and it does make me worry.” The news of Cheptegei’s death was especially devastating as she was the third female athlete to be killed in Kenya in just three years.

As a newly elected member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission, Felix has made it a priority to address these issues. She stressed the importance of severe consequences for offenders but also highlighted the need for the global sports community to come together to protect women.

Felix’s advocacy extends beyond safety concerns. Known for her resilience, Felix faced significant challenges during her athletic career, including advocating for maternity rights after being told her pay would be slashed by 70% if motherhood affected her performance. Felix spoke out against her sponsor Nike, leading to changes in the industry, including maternity protection for athletes.

Felix also launched her own footwear company, focusing on athletic shoes designed for women’s feet, and started Always Alpha, a management firm dedicated to women’s sports. Through her efforts, she aims to ensure women are no longer an afterthought in the business side of sports.

Felix’s advocacy includes addressing the high maternal mortality rates among black women in the U.S. She received a $20 million grant from Melinda Gates to improve maternal health outcomes, and she plans to expand this initiative globally. As a mother herself, Felix is particularly motivated to leave a better world for future generations.

Her work emphasizes the importance of education and awareness in healthcare, highlighting the implicit bias that often leads to disparities in treatment. Felix hopes that her efforts will inspire future generations of women to make an impact and fight for their rights.

As she looks to the future, Felix remains committed to supporting women athletes and ensuring that their health, safety, and rights are prioritized.