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Justin Gatlin has explained how modern sprinters like Noah Lyles are differen from 'intimidating' sprinters of his generation, such as Usain Bolt and Asafa Powell.
American sprinting legend Justin Gatlin has weighed in on the evolution of sprinters, drawing a sharp contrast between the likes of Noah Lyles and Kishane Thompson and the towering figures of his era, including Usain Bolt and Asafa Powell.
Gatlin, who competed in one of the most fiercely competitive generations of track and field, believes the shift in sprinters' mindset and culture mirrors broader changes in society.
The early 2000s saw the emergence of sprinting titans, both in stature and performance. Usain Bolt set unmatchable benchmarks with his world records of 9.58 seconds in the 100 meters and 19.19 seconds in the 200 meters, achieved at the 2009 World Athletics Championships in Berlin.
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11:54 - 30.12.2024
'Number one for me!' - Justin Gatlin gives old nemesis Usain Bolt his flowers as he reveals his top five sprinters of all time
Justin Gatlin has heaped praise on Usain Bolt, revealing his top five all-time greatest sprinters list, which also includes Asafa Powell.
This era also featured lightning-fast competitors like Yohan Blake, Tyson Gay, and Asafa Powell, who ran jaw-dropping times, with Gay and Blake tied as the second-fastest men ever at 9.68 seconds.
Physique played a pivotal role in that era. Bolt’s 6’5” frame, Powell’s 6’3” stature, and even Gatlin’s own 6’1” build made them imposing figures on the track. Gatlin reflected on how this physical dominance added an element of intimidation.
“I am standing next to 6’3’’ Asafa and 6’5’’ Usain Bolt. Of course I am always going to look small,” Gatlin joked during a conversation on Asafa Powell’s YouTube channel.
However, Gatlin notes a fundamental shift in how today’s sprinters carry themselves.
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17:41 - 31.12.2024
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“This era of runners does not particularly care about being intimidating,” Gatlin remarked.
He attributes this to a broader cultural shift, drawing parallels between sprinting and the evolving world of rap music. During his time, sprinting mirrored the gritty, hardcore vibe of 1990s rap, led by icons like Tupac Shakur and DMX.
“Track goes hand in hand with rap music,” Gatlin explained. “Back then, it was Tupac vs. Biggie, gangster rap, DMX—that kind of stuff we warmed up to.”
In contrast, today’s sprinters embrace a flashy, showy persona, akin to modern rap culture. Noah Lyles, known for his colorful outfits and vibrant personality, and Sha’Carri Richardson, with her unapologetic flair, exemplify this new wave.
“Their persona is more about the flash—what I got, what I can do, where I am hanging out,” Gatlin added. “Now they’re warming up to, ‘I got the rolly on my wrist, ice on my neck,’ that kind of thing.”
Gatlin’s insights shed light on how track and field has evolved beyond raw power and intimidation to become a platform for individual expression and style. While athletes like Bolt and Powell dominated with their imposing presence, today’s stars are captivating audiences with personality and panache.
For Gatlin, the transformation underscores the dynamic nature of the sport, where each generation redefines the essence of sprinting. Whether it’s through towering dominance or flashy flair, sprinting continues to captivate the world, adapting to the cultural heartbeat of the times.
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