Allyson Felix, the most decorated track and field athlete in history, is leaving an enduring legacy at the 2024 Paris Olympics that extends far beyond the competition track.
As a passionate advocate for athlete mothers, Felix has spearheaded the creation of the Games’ inaugural nursery, a groundbreaking initiative providing a dedicated space within the Athletes’ Village Plaza for mothers to care for their babies.
This sanctuary offers a haven where athletes can bond, nurse, and play with their children, alleviating the immense pressures and logistical challenges that often accompany high-level competition and parenthood. With a deep understanding of the unique struggles faced by athlete mothers, Felix, herself a mother of two, has been instrumental in breaking down barriers and fostering a more supportive environment for women who excel in both athletics and motherhood.
“I knew how difficult it was to compete at the top level after I had my daughter,” Felix shared. “The challenges of washing bottles in hotels, feeding your baby in stadiums, and finding someone to watch your baby were real. This nursery is a shift in the culture for women athletes, showing that you can choose motherhood and still be at the top of your game. I’m incredibly excited and proud to see this nursery come to life, and I deeply desire to continue improving on this concept and providing more resources for mothers and parents in sports.”
This transformative project is the result of a powerful collaboration between Felix, Pampers, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and Paris organizers, demonstrating a shared commitment to inclusivity and support for all athletes, regardless of parental status.
The Paris nursery is already proving to be a game-changer, empowering athlete mothers with a safe and comfortable space to nurture their children, enabling them to fully focus on their competitions. This historic milestone sets a powerful precedent for future Games, promoting a more inclusive vision of athletic achievement.