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American sprint legend Justin Gatlin has backed Kishane Thompsons decision to maintain a low profile despite warning that media attention will continue to grow the more accolades he collects,
In a world where fame and scrutiny often shadow athletic brilliance, American sprint legend Justin Gatlin and Jamaica’s Olympic bronze medalist Kishane Thompson have offered refreshing insights into why some elite athletes prefer a quieter path to greatness.
For Thompson, a self-proclaimed introvert, maintaining a low profile is as intentional as his strides on the track.
Gatlin, a seasoned veteran in the spotlight, not only empathizes but also supports the young sprinter’s decision.
Reflecting on Thompson's demeanor, Gatlin shared a relatable moment from Netflix's season two of Sprint that captured the Jamaican star out and about on his daily routine.
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18:49 - 16.11.2024
Kishane Thompson on why he ideally likes to maintain a low profile off the track
Kishane Thompson, who was described as a 'mystery' by Michael Johnson, has revealed why he prefers keeping a low profile off the track, having done a very few interviews, just like his races.
"It was funny watching him in Jamaica, going around just doing normal things, getting ackee and saltfish and then him getting recognized. Fans would come up to him and say, ‘Hey man, I’ve been rocking with you since 2021.’ You could see on his face," Gatlin expressed in recent episode of Ready Set Go podcast.
"But that’s the thing people think athletes in the limelight always crave attention, which isn’t true for everyone," he added.
Gatlin praised Thompson’s grounded approach, adding that many athletes, despite their public personas, are uncomfortable with constant media engagement.
"That shows the human side of them, bro, and I appreciate that," he said. Gatlin also predicted that as Thompson continues to dominate, the spotlight will inevitably grow brighter, and so will the media obligations.
"If he cracks the top five, he’ll be doing a ton of interviews because he’s going to be dubbed the next big thing," Gatlin added.
Kishane Thompson’s journey to stardom has been anything but ordinary. In June 2024, he stunned the athletics world with a blistering 9.77-second performance at the Jamaican Olympic trials, establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.
However, even as the Olympic silver medalist and one of the fastest men in history, Thompson chooses to stay grounded and away from the overwhelming glare of fame.
Appearing on Netflix's Sprint, in the lead-up to the Paris Olympics, Thompson revealed his reserved nature.
"Honestly, to be noticed a lot, I expected it, but I’m not really an outspoken person or one to be seen. I’m a really reserved and chilled person, but I understand it," he said.
Thompson described the challenge of being recognized everywhere he goes, noting that the cameras and interviews are part of the package, even if they aren’t his comfort zone.
Thompson’s introverted approach contrasts sharply with the expectation that elite athletes should thrive on attention. Instead, his focus remains firmly on his goals, understanding that accolades and recognition will follow naturally.
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20:05 - 29.11.2024
'These are big, big stories'- American sprint legend Justin Gatlin criticizes 'Sprint' for omitting hurdling athletes
The 2004 Olympic champion has criticized Netflix's Sprint for excluding hurdlers and underrepresenting key athletes' inspiring stories.
Gatlin sees this as a mark of maturity, pointing out that Thompson’s priority is to chase his dreams and let the rest fall into place.
Their shared perspective offers a reminder that, while athletic excellence often comes with public attention, not every champion seeks the limelight. For Thompson, the journey is as much about personal fulfillment as it is about breaking records, a sentiment echoed by Gatlin, who knows firsthand the pressures and rewards of standing on the world stage.
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