Melissa Jefferson-Wooden Receives Backing from Athlos Boss After Firm Stance on Women-Only Event

Alexis Ohanian, the founder of the new Athlos track league and husband of tennis legend Serena Williams, has publicly acknowledged comments from American sprinter Melissa Jefferson-Wooden regarding the league's positive influence on women's sports.

Jefferson-Wooden, who enjoyed a phenomenal 2025 track season, recently shared her perspective in an interview with Athlos. The league later featured her statement on its official Instagram account, prompting a response from Ohanian.

"Athlos is putting women on the pedestal that we deserve," said Jefferson-Wooden, a message that the Athlos boss agreed with. Ohanian replied: “Yall deserve it @__melissaj19."

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The 24-year-old sprinter was a dominant force in the 100m dash throughout 2025. She secured victories at every major event she entered, including all three legs of Michael Johnson's Grand Slam Track, the Prefontaine Classic, and the US Championships, culminating in a stellar showing at the World Championships.

Following her successful World Championships campaign, Jefferson-Wooden was slated to compete at the 2025 Athlos event. However, she later announced her withdrawal, citing the need for rest after a demanding season.

In a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), she described the withdrawal as a "tough decision" but confirmed she would still attend the meet to support her fellow competitors. It was during this time she spoke with the league about its significance.

In the interview highlighted by Ohanian, Jefferson-Wooden expressed her enthusiasm for the new platform and its potential to elevate women's track and field.

The year also marked a personal milestone for the track star, as she and her husband, Rolan Wooden II, celebrated their first wedding anniversary in October, with Wooden sharing a warm tribute to his wife on social media.