American hurdler Rai Benjamin has fired back at a fan who mocked his decision to skip the newly launched Grand Slam Track circuit.
A fan had posted on X (formerly Twitter), criticizing Benjamin for not participating in Michael Johnson’s Grand Slam Track league, writing:
“Coulda been banking in at the Grand Slam but he wanted to see the financials in the future of the event like he was going to have to backpay if he won. Fast but little brained.”
Benjamin’s reply was short and cutting:
“Put the fries in the bag.”
The response came just hours after Benjamin produced a world-class performance at Paris Diamond League on Friday night. He stormed to victory in the men’s 400m hurdles, clocking a blistering 46.93 seconds to set a new meet record. The previous mark of 46.98 was held by Qatar’s Abderrahman Samba, who finished second in 47.09. Fellow American Trevor Bassitt placed third in 48.13.
Meanwhile, the 2025 Grand Slam Track league, spearheaded by sprint legend Michael Johnson, has aimed to revolutionize the sport with an athlete-first approach, fast-paced meet formats, and elevated production value. But Benjamin has made no secret of his skepticism toward the project.
Benjamin’s criticism of GST
Benjamin, openly criticized the league’s timing and physical demands. The first leg of Grand Slam Track was held earlier this year in Kingston, Jamaica. While it attracted global attention, Benjamin believes the league’s demanding schedule could take a long-term toll on athletes.
“Having a track meet under the premise that the best is always going to compete against the best and they’re getting paid to show up, that doesn’t matter when your [body] hurts, bro,” he posted.
In addition to health concerns, Benjamin has also questioned the league’s financial model and its sustainability over time.
“I love the idea. I just don’t like the execution,” he noted.
At 27, Rai Benjamin is among one of the fastest men in history in the 400m hurdles. He has a personal best of 46.17 seconds with an Olympic silver medal got in Paris 2024.
