This year alone, Fred Kerley, former 100m world champion, withdrew his participation from the Grand Slam track events, pulled out of the USATF Championships, and was eventually suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) for multiple whereabouts failures. Yet, amidst the chaos, Kerley made a provocative move by joining the controversial Enhanced Games. Despite the deafening criticism, Kerley’s move caused some buzz around the new format. As the chatter around the Games grew louder, USADA stepped in with a pointed response.

In a recent post on X, USADA Board of Directors Vice Chair Kara Goucher highlighted the importance of preserving clean sport for the future generation. Without directly addressing the Enhanced Games, Goucher emphasized, “I think people should care about a level playing field because they should know that when it isn’t, opportunities are being stolen from clean athletes.”

She further added that with the current scenario, the word is skewed, “And also, the message is to the younger generation—you have to cheat to succeed. So, I just think overall we should all be really caring deeply that clean sport is happening.” Though the USADA’s Vice Chair didn’t name and shame anyone, the message is clear for whom it is intended and why it is necessary to respect the anti-doping laws of sports. Being a two-time Olympian herself, Kara understands the importance of maintaining clean athleticism, especially considering that many athletes work extremely hard to reach the top.

This statement by Kara Goucher comes just after Fred Kerley was suspended from competition for 12 months. Kerley challenged the proceedings against him, arguing that “one or more of his alleged missed tests should be set aside either because he was not negligent or because the doping control officer did not do what was reasonable under the circumstances to locate him at his designated location.”

But alongside the appeal, the sprinter had already dug his own grave by joining the controversial Enhanced Games. Speaking to Sports Illustrated, Kerley revealed his mindset, saying, “It feels like I was in prison before — limited even on what over-the-counter medicine I could take. Now I have peace of mind.” Kerley knows this move of his has challenged the very institution of sporting integrity, but he isn’t chasing anyone’s approval. “People will always talk. I’m not chasing their approval, I’m focused on my circle and my future.”

The Enhanced Games are quite different from conventional sports leagues, as it is built over not adhering to the rules set by USADA or other anti-doping agencies. Founded in 2023 by Australian entrepreneur Aron D’Souza, it positions itself as the “world’s first sports event that embraces science and technology.” Recently, they have added a new athlete to their roster, and the reason why athletes are into this league is quite understandable.

Mouhamadou Fall explains the reality behind following in Fred Kerley’s footsteps

French sprinter Mouhamadou Fall recently joined the controversial Enhanced Games while serving an 18-month ban for an anti-doping rule violation, which will expire in July 2026. When asked what prompted his decision, Fall revealed it wasn’t just about redemption; it was also about the deal on the table. “Yes, a substantial signing bonus and a very good monthly amount that gives me financial security, but I won’t give any numbers,” he admitted. “Money is a big motivating factor because all my contracts ended in 2023, but that’s not the only reason.”

He revealed that before the Enhanced Games offer came through, he had been “planning to come back,” but the deal presented by the new league was simply too enticing to ignore. Calling it a “huge opportunity,” Fall took a leap, one that effectively bars him from ever competing in traditional sports again. “Once that happens, you’re done – most people turn their backs on you without even trying to find out what really happened. So I don’t see why I’d go back to an organization that wrongly accused me when, in another, I’m offered respect,” explained Fall.

With Fall’s induction into the team, the Enhanced Games following is growing steadily. But will they be able to garner more footfall? Only time will tell. Regardless, what are your thoughts on the buzz? Share your opinion in the comments below.