Even though Alica Schmidt is one of Germany's top 400-meter runners, she cannot earn a career from her sport. In a recent TikTok video, she spoke openly about the low salary in the sports industry.
"If we are in the squad, i.e. the national team, we receive 700 euros (£610, $740 US) from Sporthilfe," the famous track and field athlete said.The nightclubs, you ask?
According to Alica Schmidt, there is the chance of obtaining some money every month via the club, but "it's usually not so much that you can live on it alone."
She goes on to say that other folks don't get anything at all. Running for SC Charlottenburg is her job, although the pay is "only a small sum" for her efforts.
"because you have travel and hotel costs that are not always covered," the German athlete said, "you have to pay out of your own pocket at many competitions."
It's hardly surprising that some athletes are trying out new approaches. "Most of us study part-time in order to build up a second source of income, or even have mini-jobs that we do on the side."
Alica Schmidt is also taking courses online in media and communication management.If you want to make some money and yet have time to practise and compete.