'Let it be'- Justin Gatlin on why Quincy Wilson's criticism is misguided

American sprint legend Justin Gatlin has shared his thoughts on why the criticism on Quincy Wilson's running form is unfounded.

American sprint legend Justin Gatlin has spoken out about rising track sensation Quincy Wilson’s running technique, addressing growing scrutiny over the teenager’s ‘unorthodox’ form.

Wilson, who stunned the athletics world last year by breaking multiple World U18 records and winning Olympic gold in the 4x400m relay, has continued his dominance on the track.

Most recently, he secured his third consecutive 400m title at the New Balance Nationals Indoors (March 13-16) and anchored his Bullis School team to victory in the 4x400m relay.

However, his latest relay performance reignited discussions about his running mechanics. Wilson’s low and outward arm swing has been a topic of debate among analysts and fans, with some questioning whether this technique could limit his long-term success.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Athletics News in Kenya from Pulse Sports.

Speaking on the Ready Set Go podcast, Gatlin, a former world champion and Olympic gold medalist, dismissed the notion that Wilson’s style should be drastically changed.

He emphasized that efficiency matters more than conforming to traditional ideals of "perfect form."

“We always use the term ‘perfect form’ instead of ‘efficient form,’ but efficiency can mean something entirely different. It depends on how an individual’s body is structured," he said.

Gatlin drew comparisons to sprinting icon Michael Johnson, whose upright running style was once seen as unconventional but ultimately proved to be highly effective.

“Take Michael Johnson, for example. His form was efficient for him because it got the job done in the 200m and 400m. He held the world record in both events with that form. The next generation started adapting his style—running more upright, using a tighter arm swing, and adopting a shorter stride pattern. For some, it worked. For others, it didn’t.”

Gatlin believes the same principle applies to Wilson. Rather than forcing a drastic change, he argued that Wilson’s technique should be refined over time in a way that maintains his confidence and identity as an athlete.

“Watching Quincy run right now, his form is efficient for him. That doesn’t mean it won’t change in the future. A good coach knows what to adjust immediately and what to modify gradually over time. An athlete’s form is like their personality—it has to be refined without stripping away their identity or confidence," he noted.

Despite criticisms of his form, Wilson’s performances have been nothing short of spectacular.

The 17-year-old ran 44.2 seconds in the 400m last year, a time many elite quarter-milers dream of achieving.

Gatlin pointed out that Wilson is already winning major races, delivering in high-pressure moments, and consistently improving, which is what truly matters at this stage of his career.

“He needs space to find his rhythm. Right now, he’s running superior times, winning key races, and showing up in big moments. He should be allowed to thrive in those moments.”

While Gatlin acknowledged that Wilson’s form might evolve over time, he emphasized patience, noting that strategic refinements could help him break through future plateaus.

“If he’s executing his race strategy, hitting the necessary splits, and performing well even with ‘okay’ form, then with time and adjustments, he’ll only get better. The goal is to reach the highest level and stay there. Let it be—it’s coming," he said.

As Wilson continues his rapid rise in the track world, his performances will undoubtedly remain under the microscope.

But with strong results, a supportive coaching team, and the backing of legends like Gatlin, the young star seems well on his way to cementing his place among the sport’s greats—form debates aside.