Athlete is pronounced ATH-leet (IPA /ˈæθliːt/). Only two beats — say 'ATH' then 'leet' with no 'uh' in between.
IPA: /ˈæθliːt/
Syllables: ATH · leet
Common ESL mistake: Learners add a vowel saying 'ATH-uh-leet' with three syllables.
Tip: Only two beats — say 'ATH' then 'leet' with no 'uh' in between.