Alexis Ohanian’s Athlos isn’t just another track and field league; it’s a statement. A statement that professionalism, innovation, and athlete-first thinking can coexist at the highest level. While others struggle to keep pace, remember Michael Johnson’s Grand Slam Track shutting down amid a $19 million payment fiasco. Well, Ohanian is sprinting ahead of the pack. In fact, thanks to Cash App’s instant payment system, Athlos has already outclassed the Diamond League and even the Olympics. The proof? Day 1 winners got paid instantly. Now that’s how you redefine the game.

Masai S. Russell stole the spotlight at the 2025 Athlos event with a phenomenal 12.52s finish in the 100m hurdles. Her blistering run not only earned her the prestigious Tiffany crown, presented by none other than Serena Williams, but also a cool $60,000 prize. Thanks to Alexis Ohanian’s unwavering commitment to transparency and Cash App’s smooth payout system, Russell’s victory was celebrated in true champion fashion.

Alexis Ohanian took to X to proudly showcase the instant payment Athlos made to Masai S. Russell. But that wasn’t all. After the event, an Athlos reporter caught up with the star hurdler for an exclusive one-on-one. When asked if she had actually received the prize money, Russel flashed her bank balance with a grin and said, “Can you see that in the corner, they’re not playing any games, yes I got mine.” 

She wasn’t the only one; Tara Davis-Woodhall also received her payment immediately after the event. Athlos even shared an exclusive interview in which she proudly displayed her bank balance, confirming the full $60,000 had been deposited directly into her account before she even checked into her hotel room. Along with the star-packed performances, one thing that turned the heads of the track and field athletes was the massive prize pool of $663,000.

“You can’t go too wrong if you’re prioritising the athletes, and I never lose sight of that,” said Ohanian ahead of the event, and recent developments suggest he’s certainly lived up to that promise. Well, that’s not all. The stakeholders of the event, Aka, the CashApp has announced a massive $250,000 bonus for anyone who smashes a world record.

Ohanian’s dedication to ensuring track and field athletes, especially women, receive their rightful rewards seems to have paid off, earning recognition even from his wife, Serena Williams.

Serena Williams’ statement about Alexis Ohanian’s ambition for Athlos

In New York at Athlos 2025, Serena Williams added a regal touch by honoring Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s remarkable legacy. Not only did she ensure Fraser-Pryce received the respect she deserves, but she also elevated the recognition of her career. To mark the occasion, Serena crowned her with a Tiffany piece, a perfect finale to an illustrious journey. She didn’t stop there, gifting Tiffany crowns to all athletes who triumphed in their events.

Celebrating Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s remarkable career, Serena Williams also reflected on Athlos’ meteoric rise. Speaking about her husband’s vision, she said, “Don’t doubt Alexis! He builds businesses, and he makes them great.” And she had every reason to boast: Ohanian’s all-women’s competition had reshaped the sport. With record-breaking $60,000 prize money per event, the highest in track and field history.

While Grand Slam Track has yet to finalize its payment clauses, and both the Diamond League and Olympics take days to transfer winnings, Athlos does it in mere seconds, showcasing transparency and a commitment to making a statement. Clearly, Ohanian is getting something right that others have overlooked, can you guess what it is? Drop us your thought in a comment.