Archive · 22 Jun 2025
Allyson Felix Takes on Nike Over Maternity Policies in Documentary
Allyson Felix, a famous runner, spoke out against Nike because they weren't treating female athletes fairly when they had babies.
Nike offered her much less money because she was getting older and might have a baby.
She felt this was unfair, especially compared to how male athletes are treated.
She spoke out, and eventually Nike changed its rules to help other female athletes.
The documentary 'She Runs the World' tells this story, showing how Felix stood up for what she believed in and made a difference for other women.
Allyson Felix, a decorated track and field athlete, publicly criticized Nike's maternity policies.
Felix's contract renewal with Nike included a significant pay cut due to her age and desire to have children.
She Runs the World, a documentary, details Felix's battle with Nike over its maternity policies.
Felix, with the support of her brother, negotiated with Nike for better terms, but no specific maternity protections were initially included.
Nike later announced a new maternity policy for sponsored athletes after public outcry.
- Who
- Allyson Felix, Nike, and other female athletes.
- What
- Allyson Felix challenged Nike's maternity policies.
- When
- In 2019, Felix spoke out, leading to policy changes.
- Where
- The film was screened at the Bentonville Film Festival.
- Why
- Felix advocated for better maternity protections for female athletes.
Nike's Initial Stance
Felix's Position
Maternity Policies
Nike's Initial Stance
Did not offer explicit maternity protections in contracts, potentially due to concerns about setting precedents and financial implications.
Felix's Position
Advocates for fairness for female athletes during and after pregnancy.
- Athlete
- Allyson Felix
- Sport
- Track and Field
- Sponsor
- Nike
- Documentary Title
- She Runs the World
- Year of Nike Policy Change
- 2019