Melissa Jefferson-Wooden and Kenny Bednarek Disagree With Gabby Thomas Over Grand Slam Track

Despite facing accusations that he secretly transferred half a million dollars to himself as his Grand Slam Track (GST) league neared collapse, four-time Olympic champion Michael Johnson has received a crucial vote of confidence from several high-profile American athletes.

World champion Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, Olympic silver medalist Kenny Bednarek, and hurdler Freddie Crittenden have all submitted letters to the court supporting GST's reorganization plan.

Their backing is a significant step for the embattled league as it attempts to emerge from bankruptcy, with all three athletes indicating they would compete in future seasons.

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This support provides a vital lifeline for the startup, which depends on its star power to survive. Jefferson-Wooden, a marquee name for GST, competed in its inaugural Kingston event in April 2025 before an undefeated season. She told the court that while "the 2025 execution was flawed, the underlying concept is sound," signaling her belief in a potential reboot.

Bednarek's willingness to return is particularly noteworthy, as he is reportedly owed $195,000 from the league's aborted season. His forgiveness suggests a strong belief in the league's long-term vision despite the outstanding debts.

The situation for GST remains precarious. Launched in June 2024 with promises of over $30 million in financial backing and a revolutionary prize structure, the league ran out of cash after just a few events. A proposed $30 million investment from Todd Boehly’s Eldridge Industries fell through following a lackluster opening meet in Jamaica.

By the time it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in December, GST had accumulated debts of $40.68 million against assets of only $831,385. The recent $500,000 accusation only added to the controversy.

In an official statement, GST addressed the claim: "We are aware of the UCC’s recent allegation that GST secretly paid $500,000 to Mr. Johnson instead of paying athletes and vendors. This claim is unfounded and false."

The organization clarified the payment's nature, stating, "As was previously explained to the UCC, Mr. Johnson advanced millions of dollars for GST’s operating expenses... only a portion of which was repaid through the reimbursement. It is unfortunate that the UCC chose to ignore facts and is instead attempting to discredit the company and Mr. Johnson through false statements."

While some athletes are offering a second chance, others remain critical. Three-time Olympic gold medalist Gabby Thomas, who is owed $185,625, has publicly voiced her frustration with how the venture was managed. In a comment on one of GST's TikTok videos, she wrote, "So dope! pls pay me…"

In an interview with Front Office Sports News, Thomas identified what she believes was the core issue. "I think too much, too fast, which is really funny talking about a track and field league," she said, contrasting GST's approach with that of the rival Athlos series.

Thomas praised Athlos for its methodical planning. "We had an inaugural event. We took our time with it. We took what athletes wanted to see and made it happen. And no matter how long it takes, it was very thoughtful, very, very thorough," she explained.

World Athletics has also weighed in, stating its position clearly: "It is unconscionable that efforts would be made for Grand Slam Track to restart in 2026 without the settlement of outstanding financial obligations to athletes, vendors, and service providers. It is paramount that athletes who competed in good faith... are treated fairly and paid."

As Michael Johnson strives to realize his vision for Grand Slam Track, backed by figures like Jefferson-Wooden, the vocal dissatisfaction from frustrated stars such as Gabby Thomas reveals the significant challenges the new league is facing.