Historic Incentive for USA Taekwondo Olympians & Paralympians

On March 5, 2025, the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) announced a groundbreaking initiative that will significantly impact Team USA's Olympic and Paralympic athletes. The USOPC Foundation unveiled a $100 million gift, and an unprecedented financial commitment made possible by Stephen Ross, Team USA supporter and Founder & CEO of Strong Ridge Holding Group.

This generous donation will fund an initiative which recognizes Olympic and Paralympic athletes' years of dedication, sacrifice, and success through the following rewards:

Beginning with the LA 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games Team USA Taekwondo Olympians and Paralympians will receive the Stevens Financial Security Award, which includes:

• $100,000 - Accessible 20 years after an athlete's qualifying Games or at age 45, whichever comes later
• $100,000 - Guaranteed support for an athlete's family or chosen beneficiaries
• Multiplier Effect - Athletes receive $200,000 per Olympic/Paralympic Games competed in, providing an incredible motivation for athletes to try and compete in multiple Games

USATKD CEO Steve McNally on the Impact

"This is a truly historic and unprecedented opportunity for USA Taekwondo athletes. For the first time, there is a significant financial incentive, reward, and long-term security for those who dedicate themselves to reaching the highest levels of our sport."

"This initiative not only honors the sacrifices our Olympians and Paralympians make to reach the top of the podium but also strengthens the USA Taekwondo pipeline, motivating the next generation to push toward the ultimate goal - earning the right to represent Team USA on the world's biggest stages."

"When you factor in additional prize money for Olympic medals and the substantial funding already provided by USATKD and the USOPC to train and compete, the opportunity for Taekwondo athletes to earn their worth has finally arrived. It's time to get out there and fight for it!"

Achieve Your Taekwondo Olympic/Paralympic Dream

Join - Become a USA Taekwondo member and get access to USATKD pathway events and world-class training from the club level to the U.S. National Academy

Compete - Participate in USA Taekwondo sanctioned pathway events (States, Regionals, Nationals, Team Trials) to earn a spot on the U.S. National Team. Represent the U.S. at international competitions and gain World Taekwondo Olympic/Paralympic Ranking points.

Qualify* - Secure a top five World Taekwondo Olympic Ranking or top six World Taekwondo Paralympic ranking for automatic qualification or be selected by USA Taekwondo based on your record to fight through the Continental Olympic/Paralympic Qualifier - book your spot and claim $200K!

*U.S. Taekwondo Olympic and Paralympic Taekwondo qualifications are subject to change.

Keep an eye on USATKD media channels for more information soon!

USA Taekwondo

USA Taekwondo is the National Governing Body for the sport, recognized and supported by the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee. Since Taekwondo's Olympic debut in 1988, USA Taekwondo has consistently developed elite Olympians and Paralympians.

USA Taekwondo and the United States Oympic & Paralympic Performance Center are committed to empowering athletes in pursuit of their Olympic and Paralympic dreams.