Allyson Felix is returning to track and field in her 40s. On May 7, she announced her plans on the “Today Show”.

What's driving her return?

Allyson Felix wants to prove that athletes, particularly Black women, can continue to compete at a high level beyond their 40s.

Why it matters for Allyson Felix

Felix has been inspired by athletes like Lindsay Vaughn, who made a comeback in her early 40s, and Venus Williams, who returned to tennis at 45.

What comes next?

Felix will be 42 when she competes in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, her hometown. She has been training and preparing for her return.

Felix has 31 total medals, including 11 Olympic medals and 20 World Championship medals. She launched a top-selling shoe brand, Saysh, which puts mothers first.

At 18, Allyson Felix began her Olympic track career in 2004. She has since become the most decorated track and field athlete in history.

Felix has been able to draw inspiration from fellow athletes, including LeBron James and Lewis Hamilton. She feels encouraged by their ability to push the limits of their sport.

On July 2025, Venus Williams returned to tennis at 45 and broke the record for the oldest woman to compete in the Australian Open. Serena Williams, her sister, has also been teasing a potential return to the sport.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, one of the fastest women in the world, officially retired at 38 in 2025. Elana Meyes Taylor, an Olympic bobsledder, made history as the oldest woman to win an individual gold medal at 41.

Felix's return to track and field is about more than just winning medals. It's about proving that athletes can continue to compete at a high level well into their 40s.

The 2028 Summer Olympics will be a major test for Felix. She will be competing against some of the best athletes in the world.

Felix's shoe brand, Saysh, has been a huge success. It puts mothers first and has become a top-selling brand.

Allyson Felix is an inspiration to many athletes. Her return to track and field is a testament to her hard work and dedication.

Felix has been training hard for her return. She is determined to prove that she can still compete at a high level.

The track and field community is excited to see Felix return. She is a legend in the sport and her return is highly anticipated.

Felix's return is not just about her. It's about all the athletes who are pushing the limits of their sport. It's about proving that age is just a number.