Michael Johnson SLAMS Noah Lyles & Sha’Carri Richardson: The DISRESPECT of Skipping the Grand Slam! | HO

In a groundbreaking move designed to revolutionize track and field, Michael Johnson launched Grand Slam Track (GST), a high-stakes series aiming to elevate the sport to unprecedented levels. However, amid excitement and optimism, notable absentees Noah Lyles and Sha’Carri Richardson drew sharp criticism from Johnson for missing out on what he described as a historic opportunity.

At the forefront of this ambitious new league is Johnson, an iconic figure in track and field, whose legendary status includes multiple Olympic gold medals and world records. Speaking candidly in a recent interview with Chris Chavez, founder of Citius Mag, Johnson addressed the lingering skepticism and outright disrespect he felt from high-profile athletes who opted not to participate in GST’s inaugural events.

“When we built it, you know, they come,” Johnson explained, referencing the well-known adage, yet recognizing the inevitable doubts surrounding any new venture. Johnson anticipated resistance from certain athletes hesitant to embrace change, but the absence of big names like Lyles and Richardson particularly caught his attention.

“Expecting every top name to sign up in year one was unrealistic,” Johnson admitted. Yet, he expressed clear disappointment over the conspicuous absence of some athletes, particularly sprint stars Noah Lyles and Sha’Carri Richardson, who have both publicly questioned GST’s impact. Johnson firmly addressed their skepticism, suggesting that their absence demonstrated a lack of respect for their peers who chose to participate.

“You can over-index and get hyper-focused on who’s not here, which in my opinion, is somewhat disrespectful to the 48 athletes who are,” Johnson asserted firmly. “These aren’t just any athletes; these are Olympic champions, world champions, and finalists who have already proven themselves at the highest level.”

Johnson further emphasized that the choice of these elite athletes to participate underscores GST’s credibility and potential, making the deliberate absence of stars like Lyles and Richardson even more perplexing. “The skepticism was inevitable, but momentum speaks for itself,” Johnson stated confidently. “This has never happened in the sport before, and that’s exactly why it’s worth paying attention to.”

The controversies began when Noah Lyles, known for his outspoken personality and explosive speed, openly mocked GST with a provocative statement: “If a tree falls in the woods and nobody’s around to see it, did that tree fall?” This dismissive stance provoked a strong response from Johnson, who saw it as undermining the efforts and vision behind GST.

“One thing I’m proud of,” Johnson countered, “if you go back and look from the day GST was announced, there were all sorts of questions. Those questions haven’t stopped, but neither have we.” The former Olympic champion outlined the impressive milestones already achieved, including securing significant broadcast deals with NBC Sports, Peacock streaming service, and the CW Network.

“GST secured a major broadcast deal,” Johnson pointed out emphatically, emphasizing that this was no small achievement. NBC Sports and the CW Network are slated to broadcast the events, bringing unprecedented visibility to the sport. The CW Network’s broad national reach, coupled with Peacock’s digital platform, ensures that GST’s debut season will be accessible to millions of viewers, further invalidating the critiques offered by skeptics.

Johnson noted, “Fans can now watch this one-of-a-kind event right from their homes, something critics said wouldn’t happen.” Highlighting the scale and ambition of GST, Johnson argued that athletes who have chosen to stay away have missed a critical opportunity to shape the future of their sport.

He elaborated, “Yet through all the scrutiny, we stayed the course. We raised the money, built the foundation, and proved this wasn’t just another ambitious idea—it was a movement.” Indeed, GST’s substantial investment in promoting track and field signifies a major shift aimed at transforming how the sport is perceived and enjoyed globally.

The absence of athletes like Sha’Carri Richardson, who recently captured worldwide attention with her vibrant personality and sprinting prowess, was especially notable. Richardson, whose bold presence on and off the track often draws significant attention, would have undoubtedly contributed positively to GST’s inaugural showcase. Johnson’s frustration stemmed from recognizing that such charismatic figures have the power to amplify GST’s message and broaden its appeal.

As the first event in Kingston looms, anticipation is building among fans eager to witness this pivotal moment in track and field history. Johnson remains undeterred by skeptics, confident in the robust foundations laid by GST and the undeniable quality of participating athletes.

“This isn’t just a test run—it’s history in the making,” Johnson asserted, exuding an unwavering belief in his vision. He emphasized that despite criticism, GST is on track to fundamentally reshape the sport, providing a prestigious platform for athletes and fans alike.

In a powerful closing message, Johnson offered a final verdict on the athletes who doubted GST’s viability: “Instead of dwelling on who’s not here, let’s celebrate those bold enough to race and be part of something bigger than themselves. The skeptics may still talk, but GST is about to make history, and those who missed out will regret not being part of this monumental shift.”

With a clear vision and fierce determination, Michael Johnson’s Grand Slam Track is poised to usher in a new era, demonstrating that even amidst controversy and criticism, true innovation in sport always finds a way to triumph.