Allyson Felix targets track comeback ahead of 2028 Los Angeles Olympics
American sprinter Allyson Felix has announced her intention to come out of retirement at the age of 40, targeting a return to competitive track and field ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The 11-time Olympic medallist stepped away from the sport in 2022 following a historic career on the track.
However, the mother of two recently revealed plans to resume full-time training in October under the guidance of long-time coach Bobby Kersee.
Speaking to Time Magazine, the American expressed her desire to embrace vulnerability and challenge societal expectations surrounding age and motherhood.
“You know, at this age, I should probably be staying home and taking care of my kids, doing all that. And just, why not? Let’s flip it on its head,” she said.
Chasing history in her hometown
The proposed comeback timeline aligns perfectly with a potential appearance at the 2028 Games, which will be hosted in her native Los Angeles.
Returning to the highest level would offer the American icon a chance to add to her record-breaking haul of 20 World Championship medals.
Her Olympic resume is equally unmatched, featuring seven gold medals alongside a memorable individual victory in the 200m at the 2012 London Games.
Despite her incredible pedigree, the 40-year-old remains completely realistic about the immense physical challenges ahead.
“I know, at 40, I am not at my peak. I have no illusions about that. I’m very clear in what it is and what I want to see. And so I hope it’s seen that way,” she added.
Advocacy and life beyond the track
Since initially hanging up her spikes, the former sprinting champion has become a prominent advocate for maternal rights in professional sports.
She has campaigned tirelessly for athletes seeking to balance elite careers with motherhood, drawing directly from her own experiences raising seven-year-old Camryn and two-year-old Trey.
Alongside this vital advocacy work, the celebrated athlete currently serves on the International Olympic Committee’s Athletes’ Commission.
Athletics fans will now wait until later this year to see if the legendary runner can successfully navigate the demanding road back to elite competition.
