Usain Bolt, Jamaica’s most iconic sprinter, appears to have supported Asafa Powell’s recent controversial remarks about the inadequate support systems for athletes in Jamaica. Bolt admitted he would have earned significantly more had he represented another country during his legendary career.
Powell, who despite competing in three Olympics never won an individual medal, shared in an April YouTube video that he once declined a lucrative offer in 2006 to compete for another nation a decision he now regrets. “I turned it down because I didn’t know what the future held. If I had known then what I know now, I would’ve accepted it,” Powell said, noting he was offered “millions of dollars.”
He added that financial motivations are hard to ignore. “Money makes the world go round. Everyone wants more money.” Powell further predicted that his children, who also have Canadian and Ghanaian roots through his wife Alyshia, are unlikely to represent Jamaica unless the country’s athlete support structure improves. “People don’t realize the levels we’re dealing with. This is how we earn a living through our talent,” he stressed.
Bolt: “Image and Opportunity Matter”
Bolt, the winner of eight Olympic gold medals, echoed these sentiments in a conversation on The Fix Podcast. While grateful for the endorsements he received, he acknowledged he could’ve earned substantially more with stronger institutional backing.
He highlighted the importance of personality in attracting sponsors. “What I learned is that your personality plays a big role. I was fun, relaxed, and just myself sponsors liked that.” His signature smile, lightning-bolt pose, and charisma off the track played a big part in his commercial appeal.
Bolt emphasized how focusing on his public image contributed to his off-track earnings. “I started brushing my hair, dressing better image matters,” he said.
“I Would’ve Made Way More Abroad”
The sprint icon didn’t mince words about the financial disparity he believes he faced by staying in Jamaica. “If I had competed for another country like the U.S. or the UK, I’d have made much more. Countries like Great Britain actually pay athletes for representing them it’s a different structure entirely.”
Bolt’s remarks strengthen Powell’s argument and renew debate over how Jamaica, despite producing some of the world’s greatest athletes, continues to fall short in supporting them long-term.
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