The Australian legend advised Gout Gout to focus on his own path and not be overwhelmed by comparisons to Usain Bolt.
Australia’s fastest man in the 100m Patrick Johnson has advised Gout Gout to take it easy on himself and chart his own path rather than taking the Usain Bolt comparisons seriously.
Patrick Johnson explained that it feels great to be compared to some of the greatest sprinters to have ever walked this earth but Gout Gout is still too young to start feeling the pressure.
Johnson explained that with the comparisons, Gout Gout would certainly feel the need to be like Usain Bolt but he advised the 17-year-old to follow his heart and only do what feels right in his mind.
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"I think it's a nice compliment; I think Gout Gout is a different animal. He has his expectations that he's compared to Usain Bolt and maybe some of the best in the world, and I'm just saying, 'be yourself mate'," Johnson said as quoted by ABC Sport.
Johnson added that Gout Gout has many years ahead of him to compete and surpass the records set by Usain Bolt and other greats and if he has to reach that level, he has to close his ears and block the noise.
The legend pointed out Gout Gout will encounter many challenges along the way and he should understand that it is normal to go through such.
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Gout Gout was handed his first loss of the season before a sold-out stadium in Melbourne, Australia, Competing in the 200m, the Australian teen sprint sensation finished second behind Lachlan Kennedy and from his expression after crossing the finish line, Gout Gout seemed gutted.
"In six years, Gout Gout is going to be 24 and a lot can happen in six years. There's a long journey in track and field, there's a lot of ups and downs and every race can't be a PB so let's make sure we support them at every step," Johnson added.
Gout Gout on the Usain Bolt comparisons
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Gout Gout has before opened up about the comparisons to Usain Bolt overshadowing him and what he wants to achieve in his career.
He explained that it feels great but sometimes it gets overwhelming since there is so much expectation for him to perform.
“In the moment it feels great because everyone wants to be compared to Usain Bolt, the fastest athlete alive,” Gout Gout shared.
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“At times it does get a bit overwhelming, but now that I’ve grown up, I’m a bit mature and my circle really helps me stay level and I’m just trying to make a name for myself.
“Although I do run like Usain Bolt and I do maybe look like him, I’m just trying to be myself and trying to be the next Gout.”
As he continues making an impact on the global stage, Patrick Johnson has advised Gout Gout to be his authentic self and avoid letting the comparisons get into his head.