Professional athletes are currently competing at the Ultimate Championships in Budapest, which features a record-breaking $10 million prize pool. Despite the high-profile nature of the current event, a lingering financial dispute remains regarding Michael Johnson’s previous venture, Grand Slam Track (GST).

According to reports from four leading sports agents, their clients have only received 50% of the money they were promised by GST, which ceased operations approximately 15 months ago. This situation stands in direct opposition to comments made by Michael Johnson last month, during which the four-time Olympic champion asserted that he had successfully ensured all athletes were paid. The discrepancy between the agents' claims and Johnson’s public statements highlights an ongoing conflict regarding the final settlement of debts from the defunct organization. As athletes participate in the current Budapest championships, the unresolved financial obligations from the previous venture continue to be a point of contention within the track and field community.