Allyson Felix may have retired from track and field, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Felix’s career is truly unparalleled. The most decorated female track and field athlete in Olympic history, she won seven gold medals, three silvers, and a bronze in five appearances at the games. She also holds the record in World Championships, with 20 medals, including 14 golds.
This week, USC, her alma mater, renamed their track and field home in honor of the Olympic champion, recognizing her incredible achievements both on and off the field.
“To have discussions about the renaming [of the track] because of my character, my integrity, and for fighting for women is something that doesn’t happen,” Felix said. “It just really shows what USC values. I feel proud of the things that I’ve stood for, and it makes me proud to be an alumna because of the direction that the school is going.”
USC Athletic Director Mike Bohn also spoke at the event, praising Felix saying, ” We’re incredibly honored and excited to recognize one of our greatest ambassadors and the most decorated U.S. track and field athlete of all time.”
Felix shared a post on Instagram on Tuesday during the renaming ceremony. She captioned the post, “So surreal to be standing here 19 years later where my journey as an athlete and a person truly began. I spent hours at this track training, studying and hanging with friends. Here’s to my family, friends and peers that have kept me going and inspired me to be the best I can be. Thank you for this incredible honor @usc_athletics @usc_track_field.”
View this post on Instagram
Related Story: Allyson Felix Fans Gathered Sha’Carri Richardson After Noticing Shady Instagram Posts
The honor of renaming a sports facility is typically reserved for those who provide substantial financial donations, but Felix’s character, integrity, and advocacy for women’s sports earned her this special recognition.
Felix’s impact on women’s sports is undeniable. She famously took on Nike when the company refused to provide adequate maternity benefits and salary guarantees in the wake of her wanting to start a family with her husband and fellow athlete, Kenneth Ferguson. Her activism led to a change in policy at Nike and inspired other female athletes to speak out against unequal treatment.
Felix’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of athletes, particularly women in sports.
