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Allyson Felix, 36, is officially retiring from running. She shared the news in an Instagram post on Wednesday. Though there were speculations about her retirement after the Tokyo Olympics, the five-time Olympian has remained mum on the subject until today. Her post directly states that 2022 will be her last season racing.
“Here’s to my final season,” she ended the post.
Felix also asked the running community and fans to watch out for more news and announcements surrounding her career to come. “This season I’m running for women. I’m running for a better future for my daughter. I’m running for you. More to come on that, so stay tuned, but I’ll be sharing a series of announcements that I’m hoping will make the world better for women,” she wrote.
Felix, who became the most decorated female Olympian in track and field history thanks to the two additional medals she won in Tokyo last year, has cemented herself as an icon in not only the sport, but as an empowering voice for women. In her storied career she has fought for contract protections for pregnant athletes, testified in congress about Black maternal health disparities, started her own shoe company, and championed other female entrepreneurs, athletes, and mothers.
Will Felix continue to break records in her final season? This is a big year for track and field, with the world championships being held in Eugene, Oregon, starting July 15. By her own admission, Felix writes “I have given everything I have to running and for the first time I’m not sure if I have anything left to give.”
Whatever happens this year, people will tune in to say goodbye to one of the greatest female racers of all time. For Felix, 2022 is more of a victory lap than one last chance to prove herself. She’s diversified her career beyond running, and we’re excited to see what she has planned for beyond 2022.
“I want to say goodbye and thank you to the sport and people who have helped shape me the only way I know how—with one last run. This season isn’t about the time on the clock, it’s simply about joy. If you see me on the track this year I hope to share a moment, a memory and my appreciation with you,” she wrote.
Keep an eye out for more announcements about Felix’s race schedule. The next chance to watch her race will be in the 300 meters at the Penn Relays on April 30.
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