Asafa Powell – Doha 2012

One of the greatest sprinters in history Asafa Powell called out the Jamaican authorities for poor treatment, stating his regret to have ran for the country.

Legendary Jamaican sprinter Asafa Powell candidly spoke about the poor treatment he received from Jamaican athletics authorities during his active years, expressing regret over not switching nationality earlier in his career.

Making a social media post following the viral video of his son effortlessly winning his race during his sports day, the former world record holder unapologetically revealed the poor support system for athletes in Jamaica and why he should have taken the opportunity to run for another country.

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“I remember back in 2006, I was offered millions of USD to run for another country, and at the time I turned it down because I didn’t know what the future holds. If I knew what I know now, I would have taken up that opportunity,” said Powell.

Further stating the extent of his hurt for Jamaican authorities, the sub-10s king said he has never gotten anything from his country.

Asafa Powell | IMAGO

“No athlete wants to retire and go work 9-5 or sit down struggling and wondering what’s next. We all want to have a good life afterward, money should work for us when we retire,” he added.

“If anything don’t change, none of them (his kids) is running for free.

I ran for free my entire life, I ran for Jamaica, just country pride and all that stuff to win a medal and I’ve never gotten anything from the country.”