Kishane Thompson on why he ideally likes to maintain a low profile off the track

Kishane Thompson on why he ideally likes to maintain a low profile off the track

Mark Kinyanjui 18:49 - 16.11.2024

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.

Reigning Olympic 200m silver medalist Kishane Thompson has shed light on his decision to maintain a low profile, even as his meteoric rise places him among the world’s most electrifying sprinters.

The Jamaican sprinter’s breakthrough came in June 2024, when he scorched the track with a jaw-dropping 9.77 seconds at the Jamaican Olympic trials. 

The performance, a thunderous declaration of intent, cemented Thompson’s status as a formidable contender on the global stage.

At the Paris Olympics, Thompson’s calm demeanor contrasted sharply with the high-octane atmosphere. Lining up against a stacked field in the 100m final, he delivered a nail-biting finish, tying with American star Noah Lyles at 9.79 seconds.

Despite his achievements, Thompson remains a self-proclaimed introvert, far removed from the spotlight-craving persona often seen in elite sports.

 Appearing on Sprint, a documentary series chronicling the lead-up to the Olympics, Thompson reflected on 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 shared.

The sudden fame has been a life-altering experience for Thompson, who admitted in a previous interview with Nationwide 90 FM:

"A lot of cameras and interviews. I cannot walk and go anywhere without people recognizing me."

While many fans marvel at his humility, Thompson’s quiet storm approach continues to set him apart, proving that greatness doesn’t always need a megaphone.

His humility and introversion stand in stark contrast to his legendary predecessor, Usain Bolt, whose larger-than-life persona defined an era. 

Thompson’s rise as the next big Jamaican hope, however, has not been without challenges. A history of injuries limited his appearances on the international stage, including a hamstring problem that forced him to withdraw from the Rome Diamond League in August 2024.

In 2023, Thompson competed in just three Diamond League meets, with his best performance being a second-place finish in Xiamen.

 However, his victory at the Gyulai Istvan Memorial Continental Tour Gold meet last July—where he defeated rising star Letsile Tebogo—showed his immense potential.

Though Thompson’s lack of big-stage experience may have cost him gold in Paris, his electrifying performances and quiet determination suggest he’s only getting started.

 As he continues to develop, Thompson seems poised to honor Bolt's legacy in his own unique way, proving that greatness can thrive in silence.

 Thompson seems poised to honor Bolt's legacy in his own unique way, proving that greatness can thrive in silence.

Tags: