17-year-old Australian sprinter Gout Gout impressed audiences at the Diamond League meet in Monaco on 11/7, winning the under-23 200m race in 20.10 seconds. Despite a 1.9 m/s headwind, the teenage sensation outpaced his competitors, finishing ahead of Naeem Jack of South Africa (20.42 seconds) and Busang Collen Kebinatshipi of Botswana (20.28 seconds).

Gout Gout celebrates after winning the under-23 200m race at the Diamond League in Monaco on 11/7. Photo: Reuters

"My finishing speed is key," Gout said after the race in Monaco, France. "I just focus on the first 50, 100 meters, and once I'm out of the bend, I know I can pass everyone. So, just stay calm, focused, and power through."

This was Gout's first Diamond League experience, but he didn't compete in the main 200m event, which was won by Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles in 19.88 seconds, also facing a headwind (0.8 m/s).

"I didn’t run in the main race because I'm easing into it; there's no need to throw me into the big races when I'm building towards the world championships," the 17-year-old explained. "The goal right now is just to go out there and have fun."

Gout Gout wins the under-23 200m race at the Diamond League in Monaco.

Two weeks prior, Gout made his professional debut at the Ostrava Golden Spike, winning the 200m race in 20.02 seconds, breaking the Australian record. Following his European competitions, Gout plans to return to school in Queensland while preparing for the World Championships in Japan in September.

"I’m happy even though I was just told it was a headwind," Gout remarked. "I ran pretty well so I’m happy with that. I haven’t raced much this season because of school; I’ll be back at school on Monday. The holidays are my time to compete.”

Gout, often compared to Usain Bolt, first gained recognition in 2022, running the 100m in 10.57 seconds at the age of 14. He garnered more attention in August 2024 when he ran the 200m in 20.60 seconds at the World Athletics U20 Championships, 0.01 seconds faster than Bolt's record at age 15 in 2002. At the Australian All-Schools Championships in 12/2024, Gout's 10.04-second 100m time, at age 16, was not recognized due to excessive tailwind (3.4 m/s). His official personal best in the 100m remains 10.17 seconds.

Hong Duy (The Guardian)