As of this writing, 13 out of the top 13 female athletes sponsored by Nike are pregnant, despite the new policy protecting them from pay reductions during the 18 months preceding and following their pregnancy. The Nike Collective was started to ensure that female athletes could be involved in company decision making. It is also crucial that Nike has female athletes involved in its discussions, which will help to grow the brand and the sport of Nike.
13 of Nike's most prominent sponsored athletes are now pregnant
Thirteen of Nike's top female sponsored athletes are either pregnant or have already given birth. For women who have dedicated their lives and careers to their sport, this trend of athletes becoming mothers is particularly troubling. The lack of support for athletes in pregnancy is especially problematic, and Nike's policy on maternity leaves athletes feeling unprotected. Many have raised concerns about the issue and asked for punishments after giving birth.
Nike's new pregnancy policy protects them for 18 months from any pay cut
It is often said that women in sports including the Olympic teams are subject to pay cuts. Nike is now taking the initiative to protect female athletes against these cuts. Nike executives sent a note to female athletes explaining that they had not properly considered pregnancy in sponsorship agreements. But that they now have pregnancy protection language in the contracts. Felix explains why Nike has made a change to its policy.
Allyson Feliz
A few years ago, Allyson Felix was involved in a dispute with Nike over maternity rights. She claimed Nike's approach was disrespectful and tone deaf. Nike made changes and did not penalize Felix for poor performance in pregnancy or after birth. The situation is not ideal for everyone. Felix has signed an agreement with Athleta to address the new situation.
Alyssia's pregnancy
Alyssia Monteno, a pregnant Olympic runner, has been the talk of the town. Mexican-born Montano, who was pregnant with her first child, competed at the women's race in 2014. Her pregnancy was an important event and the company cut her wages retroactively. She stated that Nike and U.S. Olympic Committee had put pressure on her to return to full athletic form as soon as possible. After her first pregnancies, she left Nike to sign with Asics. This allowed her to continue competing without losing any of the pay. She was afraid that she would not be able to return to her former level and it could threaten her future sponsorships.
Allyson Felix's reaction to nike's ad
Allyson Felix has been in negotiations with Nike for her maternity coverages. She claims that she wasn't aware she was pregnant when Nike asked her to be in an ad for female empowerment. Her contract with the company expired in December, so she was asked to take a 70% pay cut to stay with the company. In addition, she requested certain maternity protections, such as the right to choose a doctor, which Nike denied. The ad sparked a wider debate about the rights of female athletes.