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Discover five key facts about Kishane Thompson, the world's fastest man in 2024 and Olympic 100m silver medallist.
Olympic 100m silver medallist Kishane Thompson has emerged as one of the most electrifying athletes in track and field, blazing his way to global recognition.
In 2024 season, Thompson stunned the world by clocking a sensational 9.77 seconds in the 100 meters at Jamaica’s Olympic trials, making him the fastest man of the year.
With such a breathtaking performance, the 23-year-old Jamaican sprinter has carved his name into the history books as one of the top 10 fastest men of all time. But there is more to Kishane Thompson than just speed.
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18:30 - 23.09.2024
'He's the yang, I am the ying!' - Kishane Thompson on the pivotal role twin brother has played in shaping him
Kishane Thompson has spoken candidly about the role his fraternal twin brother Kishan has played in shaping the sprinter he now is.
Here are five things to know about the rising who shone at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
1. The 9.77 seconds that shook the world
In 2024, Kishane Thompson made headlines worldwide with his jaw-dropping time of 9.77 seconds at Jamaica's Olympic trials.
His time ranks him as the joint-ninth fastest man in history a remarkable achievement for someone only in his second season as a professional.
Thompson now stands as the fourth-fastest Jamaican of all time, trailing only sprinting legends Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake, and Asafa Powell.
Thompson’s 9.77-second run stunned fans and experts alike, as many were waiting to see if Jamaica would produce another 100m star in the post-Bolt era.
With this performance, Thompson has firmly placed himself on the global stage, where all eyes will be on him at the upcoming Olympics.
2. Overcoming early setbacks
Kishane Thompson's journey to the top has been far from smooth. In high school, he was plagued by injuries, including shin splints and hamstring issues, which limited his ability to compete at Jamaica's renowned ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships.
His development was further hampered by the Covid-19 pandemic, which curtailed athletic events globally. Despite these setbacks, Thompson’s coaches and mentors saw his potential early on.
One of Thompson’s greatest influences was the late Neville Myton, a former Jamaican middle-distance runner known for his eye for talent. Myton famously predicted that Thompson, whom he nurtured at Garvey Maceo High School, would become one of the world’s greatest sprinters.
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17:00 - 12.09.2024
Kishane Thompson agrees with Justin Gatlin on the high standards Usain Bolt set that defined a sprinting generation
Kishane Thompson has expressed admiration for the high standards Usain Bolt set in sprinting that churned out a generation of other sprinters that clocked sub 9.8 speeds.
It is this unwavering belief in his potential that has propelled Thompson through difficult times and brought him to where he is today.
3. The twin bond that defines him
A significant aspect of Kishane Thompson's personal life is his close relationship with his fraternal twin brother, Kishaun. The two share a deep bond that goes beyond mere sibling affection.
In fact, Thompson made a life-changing decision to stay in Jamaica for his education rather than accept an overseas scholarship to Iowa Western Community College. His reason? He did not want to be separated from his brother.
This decision speaks volumes about his strong emphasis on family and the values that shape his life. Both brothers wear a special amulet that symbolizes their love and mutual inspiration, and Kishane kisses this amulet before every race as a gesture of motivation.
Their relationship is a constant source of strength for Thompson, pushing him to strive for greatness on and off the track.
4. Mentored by some of Jamaica’s best coaches
Kishane Thompson’s rapid rise to the top has been supported by some of Jamaica’s most respected coaches.
After being scouted in 2019, Thompson joined the prestigious MVP Track & Field Club, where he is coached by the renowned Francis brothers, Paul and Stephen.
These two masterminds have helped develop some of the world’s greatest sprinters, including Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Asafa Powell.
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15:30 - 23.09.2024
'It’s been an absolutely crazy year' – Femke Bol reflects on impressive 2024 season
Dutch track star Femke Bol reflects on her exceptional 2024 season after winning multiple Olympic medals and Diamond League titles.
Under their guidance, Thompson has honed his unique blend of explosive starts and strong finishes, qualities that set him apart from other sprinters.
At the MVP club, Thompson is learning from the best while also pursuing a bachelor’s degree in sports management at the University of Technology in Jamaica.
His dedication to both his athletic and academic careers speaks to his intelligence, focus, and drive to succeed in all areas of his life.
5. A hometown hero in the making
Kishane Thompson hails from Mitchell Town, a quiet fishing community in Clarendon, Jamaica.
Despite the challenges faced by his hometown, especially following the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl, Thompson’s achievements have brought a glimmer of hope to the community.
As Thompson continues to shine on the global stage, his family and neighbors rally behind him, viewing his success as a source of inspiration and pride.
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11:30 - 24.09.2024
Top 5 fastest men in the 200m in 2024
This season has seen athletes run crazy times in the men's 200m and threaten Usain Bolt's 19.19 seconds 200m world record.
On August 4, 2024, when Thompson takes his place on the starting blocks at the Olympics, the people of Mitchell Town will pause their daily lives to cheer him on.
For them, his success represents more than just a personal triumph—it symbolizes the resilience and strength of their community.
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