by Michael Bascombe
NEW YORK, September 27, 2025 - NBC Track and Field analyst and four-time Olympic medallist Ato Boldon has called on Grenada’s Sir Kirani James to consider channelling his influence and legacy into leadership roles within world athletics once his competitive career concludes.
Speaking on the weekly TalkSports programme on Saturday, Boldon reflected on James’ showing at the recent World Athletics Championships in Tokyo—where the three-time Olympic medallist failed to reach the men’s 400 metres final—and admitted he was surprised.
“Well, imagine my—I don’t want to say horror—but imagine my shock when Kirani did not make the final in Tokyo. That for me was like, wow,” Boldon said. “I was there in Grenada after he won the world title, and oh my gosh, every conversation with every Grenadian was Kirani and the world record. I remember thinking, he has won your first world title, he probably has a really good chance to win in London next year, but stop with the world record pressure.”
Despite the setback, Boldon insisted that James still appeared capable of medaling this year. However, he emphasised that the decision to step away from competition is a personal one.
“When Kirani’s time comes, whether it is sooner or later, and I believe that’s a very personal decision… I know he is one of the most beloved people in our sport,” Boldon explained. “I know he’s a man of great principle, and I know he is somebody whom a lot of people have admiration and respect for.”
According to Boldon, James’ global reputation extends far beyond Grenada’s borders.
“I know people who could not point to Grenada on a map, but because of the sort of example and bright light that Kirani has been for so long for the Spice Island, they would follow anything with Grenada because of Kirani,” Boldon said.
For Boldon, that influence makes James an ideal candidate to take up leadership in world sport.
“I think Kirani needs to translate that into seeking some sort of high office in the IOC or in World Athletics. Because I think he is the kind of person that a lot of people—who might disagree on other things—they could agree on Kirani. And I, for one, would vote for Kirani for anything he wanted to do in a leadership role in our sport.”
Drawing a comparison, Boldon recalled how former New Zealand shot put star Valerie Adams successfully transitioned into public sporting leadership. He believes James is cut from the same cloth.
“I would encourage Kirani to go in that direction,” Boldon concluded.