American sprint legend Justin Gatlin speaks out about Michael Johnson’s controversial feud with Tara Davis-Woodhall and husband Hunter Woodhall

Tara Davis Woodhall and husband Hunter Woodhall recently sparked a feud with American track and field legend Michael Johnson.

American sprinting icon Justin Gatlin has spoken out on the story that sent the athletics world into a frenzy after American sprinting legend Michael Johnson’s comments sparked a heated debate with track and field power couple Hunter Woodhall and Tara Davis-Woodhall had triggered.

Johnson, known for his dominance in track and field, was criticized for skipping field events in his ambitious Grand Slam Track League initiative.

Furious Tara Davis-Woodhall and her husband Hunter Woodhall have blasted Michael Johnson over his comments about why he turned down field events in his Grand Slam track and field league.

Olympic women’s long jump champion Davis-Woodhall expressed her frustration and stressed that track and field are inextricably linked as she moved on. She criticized Johnson for not doing more to promote the sport during his playing years and suggested he should stay away now that he has retired.

Johnson’s comments appear to stem from his focus on creating a sprint-centric platform, which he says is consistent with his expertise and past successes.

However, his comments were perceived by many as derogatory to field events, a critical aspect of the sport that deserves equal recognition and support.

Gatlin weighed in on the controversy and offered a nuanced perspective. He acknowledged Johnson’s intentions to innovate, but questioned whether his approach alienated the broader athletics community.

“Michael was telling the truth…but maybe he doesn’t know enough about the team to be successful.” Gatlin said in a recent episode of the Ready, let’s go Podcast.

Gatlin also suggested that Johnson’s comments could serve as a challenge for field event legends to get involved and create their own platforms.

Gatlin also noted the importance of unity in sports, especially during a transition period.

“Right now, with the changing of the guard in athletics, more unity is better than division,” he remarked.

The Davis-Woodhall backlash has increased discussions about the disparity between athletics events in terms of visibility and support.

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While Johnson’s Grand Slam Track League aims to revolutionize the sport, critics argue that real progress can only be made if all of its facets are given equal consideration.

As the debate continues, the athletics community must grapple with how to balance innovation with inclusivity and ensure that every athlete, whether in track or on the field, feels valued and represented.