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Fraser-Pryce spoke candidly about the costs athletes often shoulder themselves, from training expenses to medical care. She noted that some athletes spend thousands of dollars seeking specialised treatment and support while pursuing excellence at the highest level.

“There are a lot of things that happen with an athlete,” she said, pointing to the costs of travelling overseas to access medical specialists and treatment.

Her comments come at a time when concerns about athlete welfare have become increasingly public. Ahead of and during the Paris Olympics, several athletes and officials raised questions about preparation, funding and administrative support. Similar concerns have surfaced repeatedly over the years, particularly among athletes competing outside Jamaica’s traditional sprint events.

Olympic bronze medallist Rajindra Campbell has spoken openly about the financial challenges of pursuing his sport. Despite becoming one of Jamaica’s most successful field-event athletes, he has had to largely fund his own journey while balancing work commitments. Other field athletes have shared similar experiences, highlighting the uneven levels of support available across different disciplines.

Recent discussions surrounding athletes changing allegiance should serve as a warning. Olympic medallists and rising stars have explored opportunities elsewhere, citing frustrations with support systems and the opportunities being offered by other nations.

It is a sentiment that resonates with many athletes, both past and present, who have spoken publicly about the challenges of funding their careers and securing support beyond competition.

For Fraser-Pryce, the issue extends well beyond medals and championships.

“What are we doing to transition athletes outside of the sport? How can we help them to invest and make that transition?”

It is a question Jamaica has struggled to answer for decades.

Over the years, Jamaicans.com has interviewed several former athletes who once brought glory to Jamaica but now live in obscurity. Some face financial hardship. Others struggle with healthcare costs, housing challenges and limited opportunities after retirement. Many Jamaicans would not even recognise the names of athletes who once represented the country with distinction.

As a nation, Jamaica celebrates its athletes when they win medals, break records and stand atop podiums. Their victories become our victories. Their achievements become symbols of national pride.

“And yes, I know we are a small country and we consistently punch above our weight, but Jamaica has to do better by our athletes,” Fraser-Pryce said.

If Jamaica wants to maintain its position as a global leader in athletics, government, sporting bodies and Corporate Jamaica must work together to create a stronger support system for athletes during and after their careers.

Because when athletes win, Jamaica wins.

And when one of the greatest athletes in Jamaican history says Jamaica must do better by its athletes, we should listen.