Kenny Bednarek’s girlfriend and Indian golfer Sharmila Nicollet hailed the American as the most consistent sprinter in the world as he signed with Michael Johnson’s new track league, Grand Slam Track. Bednarek is fresh off winning the silver medal at the Paris Olympics and will compete in the 100m and the 200m dashes.
Bednarek started off his 2024 season with a couple of 400m runs in March before proceeding to dominate the 200m sprints. He clocked 20.35s in his season opener before breaking his personal best multiple times over the season, the latest being 19.57s at the Zurich Diamond League.
He qualified in the 100m and 200m at the Paris Olympics, where he made it to the finals in both events. While he didn't win any medal in the 100m, Bednarek ran an impressive 19.62s in the 200m final to win his second consecutive medal in the event. He is now set to become one of the faces of Michael Johnson's new track league.
Following his signing with the Grand Slam Track, Kenny Bednarek’s girlfriend Sharmila Nicollet expressed happiness and hailed the sprinter as the most consistent in the world. She wrote:
"Love this association A great story, competitor and the most consistent sprinter in the world! This league is taking the sport to new heights. Looking forward to learning more about the athletes on and off the track."
The couple have been dating for over four years now, celebrating their four-year anniversary on June 1st, 2024. She captioned the anniversary post back then:
"Happy 4 year Anniversary baby ❤️ Too many amazing memories, adventures around the world and hairstyles to choose from 😆 06-01-2020………to be continued."
Kenny Bednarek is excited to race at the Grand Slam Track
Kenny Bednarek was delighted to sign for the Grand Slam Track, a league that he believes gives him the opportunity to compete at the highest level against some of the best athletes.
“The Grand Slam League is a great initiative by Michael Johnson. It's an incredible opportunity to compete at the highest level with some of the best athletes in the sport. I love the head to head concept, emphasis on storytelling, showcasing personalities and a good opportunity for athletes to feature their talent. This league brings a fresh perspective to track and field. I'm looking forward to testing my limits, improving my performance, and putting on a show for the fans. It’s going to be exciting for all those watching and participating," he said (via press release).
Bednarek and Fred Kerley are among the first male sprinters to sign for the league, and there's surely some more big names lined up with Noah Lyles having shown a bit of interest as well. The league will have four events per year, and each event winner will be awarded a prize money $100,000 which is currently nearly double of what World Athletics pays to Olympic gold medalists.