Elite athletes give their sport of choice their absolute all. The problem is, only a handful get sponsorship from brands which helps the athlete get paid and recognized.

Bandit Running is changing the game with the Unsponsored Project, supporting over 50 athletes at the 2025 USA Track & Field Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon happening now until August 3. These athletes are competing in unbranded all black kits and representing themselves. Each athlete receives a 10 day contract, including $1,500 in cash, racing kits, a $1,000 Bandit gift card and the freedom to sign with other brands at any time.

At the recent 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, players made a powerful statement by wearing black shirts with the slogan “Pay Us What You Owe Us” during pregame warm-ups. Organized by the WNBA Player’s Association, this demonstration aimed to draw attention to ongoing pay disparities and players' fight for salaries that reflect the league’s growth and their contributions to its success. For reference, average WNBA salary is around $100,000 and the average NBA salary is closer to $10 million (rough estimates).

The U.S. Open is set to debut a reality dating show titled "Game, Set, Matchmaker" during the 2025 tournament. The series will feature 24 year old Ilana Sedaka, a former figure skater turned Pilates coach, as "The Champion." She'll be joined by seven contestants, including social media personalities / creators and tennis superfans, dating to win her love with the US Open as the backdrop and date spot.