Olympic pole vaulter Alysha Newman is shrugging off criticism surrounding her decision to join OnlyFans, choosing instead to focus on the positive connections and financial opportunities the platform has brought her.
Newman, who became an overnight sensation on Wednesday after celebrating her bronze medal win in the women’s pole vault final with an enthusiastic twerk in front of the Stade de France crowd, recently addressed the controversy in an interview with German publication BILD.
The 30-year-old athlete discussed her presence on the subscription-based platform, where she has garnered significant attention, amassing around 65,000 “likes” on her profile.
“Of course, many people have preconceived notions about OnlyFans,” Newman said. “I know I can’t change everyone’s mind, but that doesn’t concern me. This platform has allowed me to connect with fans in a way that no other pole vaulter has before. What others think isn’t my concern—I am who I am, and I’m proud of it.”
Newman uses her OnlyFans account to share a variety of content, including “a lot of [her] training sessions,” giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at her life as an elite athlete. According to BILD, during the Paris Games, her page was available for $7.14, with a regular monthly subscription set at $12.99. Content creators on the platform typically retain about 20 percent of the revenue, making it a lucrative side venture for many.
“I earn money from what I post—if people are curious, they can log in to see for themselves,” Newman said. “It gives me confidence, and I feel good about it.”
This has been a standout Olympics for Newman, as she made history by winning Canada’s first-ever medal in women’s pole vaulting. She achieved this milestone by clearing a height of 4.85 meters, setting a new Canadian national record in the process.
Reflecting on her accomplishment, Newman told Canada’s Olympic website, “It was a surreal moment. It was awesome. Everyone kept saying that if anyone could do it, it would be me, and I’m thrilled I lived up to those expectations.”
Newman’s bronze medal performance placed her behind Australia’s Nina Kennedy, who took home the gold, and Katie Moon of Team USA, who secured the silver.
The Paris Olympics marked Newman’s third appearance at the Games, having previously competed in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.
With her recent success and the attention she’s received, Newman has solidified her place as a trailblazer both on and off the field, embracing her identity and choices regardless of public opinion.
As she continues to navigate the spotlight, Newman remains unapologetically herself, using her platform to inspire and connect with her audience while making history in the sport she loves.
