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Athing Mu was born on June 8, 2002, in Trenton, New Jersey, to parents from South Sudan. She is the second youngest of seven siblings, and many of them love sports too. At just 6 years old, Athing Mu joined the Trenton Track Club with coach Al Jennings. We think it’s amazing how she started running so young and showed talent right away. Her family helped her a lot, cheering her on as she trained hard. Her upbringing in a large family with a passion for sports gave her a head start. Now, at 22 years old, she’s already a big name in running.
Athing Mu decided not to run for her high school team at Trenton Central High School. Instead, she put all her energy into club competitions. This choice worked well because, at 16, she broke the American indoor 600-meter record in 2019. It’s exciting to see how fast she became a star. That win made people notice her, and she kept getting better. After high school, she went to Texas A&M University to keep running. Her focus on club races set her up for big things later. Athing Mu’s early success showed she was ready to shine.
Success in College and Professional Running
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At Texas A&M University, Athing Mu became a top runner fast. She broke lots of records in the 800 meters, proving she’s great at middle-distance races. Her time in college was full of hard work and learning from good coaches. We’re impressed by how she kept improving every day. She trained a lot, and it paid off with amazing results. Her success at college got her ready for the professional world. Athing Mu’s college years were a big step toward her huge wins later on.
When Athing Mu turned professional, she did incredible things. In 2020, at only 19, she won gold in the 800 meters at the Tokyo Olympics. She broke the national record set by Ajee Wilson in 2017 with a time of 1:54.97. That year, she also contributed to the gold medal won by the women’s 4×400-meter relay team. The first American woman to win the 800-meter world championship title was her in 2022. She also owns the 2021 indoor 800-meter world under-20 record. Her list of victories keeps growing, and we’re proud of her.
Earnings from Competitions
Athing Mu makes money from winning races, and her Olympic success brought in big cash. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, she won two gold medals—one in the 800 meters and one in the 4x400m relay. Each gold medal earned her $37,500, so she got $75,000 total from that event. Winning the world championship in 2022 also added prize money, though we don’t know the exact amount. It’s thrilling to see how her talent turns into real earnings. These big races show how her skills pay off on the track.
Athing Mu also gets money from other competitions she runs in. She has raced in many events, like the Prefontaine Classic in 2023, where she set her personal best. These races give cash prizes to top runners, and she often finishes near the top. Her steady wins mean she keeps adding to her bank account. Every time she crosses the finish line first, it’s another paycheck. Athing Mu’s ability to win again and again helps her build her wealth. Her track record keeps her earning strong.
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Money from Sponsorships and Brands
Athing Mu has deals with big companies that pay her well. She works with Nike, Coca-Cola, Neiman Marcus, and Olay, who all want her to show off their products. These brands love her because she’s famous and good at running. it is cool how she’s not just a runner but a face for these companies too. They give her money to wear their clothes or drink their soda. Her deals bring in a lot of cash outside of racing. Athing Mu’s fame makes her a perfect fit for these partnerships.
Her popularity on Instagram, with over 189,000 followers, helps her get more brand deals. She posts about her life and races on her account, @athiiing, and companies notice. In 2022, she walked at New York Fashion Week, which made her even more interesting to brands. That event showed she can do more than just run fast. Her big following and style off the track bring in extra money. Athing Mu’s presence online and in fashion adds to her earnings in a big way.
Athing Mu’s Net Worth Today
Athing Mu’s net worth is between $1 million and $2 million as of July 2024. This money comes from her race prizes and brand deals together. At 22, she’s already done so much, and her bank account shows it. We’re happy for her because she’s worked hard to get here. Her Olympic wins, world titles, and sponsorships all add up. Compared to other young runners, she’s doing really well. Athing Mu’s net worth proves she’s a star on and off the track.
Her young age means Athing Mu could make even more money later. She’s only 22, so she has many years to keep winning races and signing deals. Even with a tough moment, like her fall at the 2024 US Olympic Trials, she’s strong enough to come back. That fall stopped her from running the 800 meters in Paris, but she might still join the 4x400m relay team. With her coach Bobby Kersee helping her, she has a bright future. Her talent and drive could make her net worth grow a lot.