In a recent move that could change the financial landscape for high-performance U.S. athletes, financier Ross Stevens has pledged $100 million to a nonprofit supporting Team U.S.A. His generous gift aims to provide much-needed financial support to competing American athletes, offering them at least $200,000 worth of post-retirement benefits through the newly created Stevens Financial Security Awards.
Stevens, the founder and CEO of the asset manager Stone Ridge Holdings Group, believes that financial insecurity should not hinder elite athletes from achieving excellence on the world stage. His commitment will kick in for athletes participating in the upcoming 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Milan and will continue through at least the 2032 Games in Brisbane.
The Stevens Awards will provide $100,000 each to athletes 20 years after their initial qualifying Games or when they reach 45 years of age—whichever comes later. The funds will be distributed over four years and can be used for any purpose. Additionally, $100,000 will be allocated to the families or chosen beneficiaries of athletes upon their passing.
For every Olympic or Paralympic Games an athlete competes in, the $200,000 benefit will be multiplied. This “multiplier effect” aims to incentivize athletes to continue competing, as previous games have shown that 60 percent of U.S. medals come from athletes with prior experience.
Stevens’ philanthropic endeavors extend beyond this latest gift, as he has previously donated $100 million to support educational programs and establish centers of excellence. In support of the Stevens Award, Stone Ridge will match any contribution made by its employees dollar for dollar.
The eligibility criteria for the Stevens Award may include a “morality clause” that could impact certain high-earning athletes. While some U.S. Olympians and Paralympians earn substantial incomes through salaries and endorsements, many rely on additional jobs to support their athletic pursuits. The financial challenges faced by these athletes highlight the importance of initiatives like the Stevens Awards in providing security for their post-athletic lives.
As the sporting world awaits the impact of Stevens’ generous pledge, it is clear that his commitment to supporting Olympic and Paralympic athletes reflects a deep understanding of their unique financial needs and a desire to ensure their well-being beyond the competitive arena.
