Australian sprinter Gout Gout shattered the junior world record in the 200 meters on Sunday, clocking a time of 19.67 seconds. The performance took place during the national championships in Sydney, where the 18-year-old eclipsed the mark previously held by Jamaican legend Usain Bolt at the same age.
Nicknamed 'the son of Bolt' due to his physical resemblance to the Jamaican icon, Gout is rapidly ascending the global athletics ranks. His new time of 19.67 seconds improves upon Bolt's 19.99-second mark at age 18.
This achievement also marks a significant personal milestone for the athlete. Gout surpassed his own national record of 20.02 seconds, which he previously set in Ostrava, Czech Republic, in 2025.
A lucrative future in athletics
The young sprinter's rise is accompanied by substantial commercial interest. Gout has signed a sponsorship deal with Adidas worth more than $6 million, securing his partnership with the brand through 2032.
Born in Ipswich, Queensland, in 2007, Gout is the third of seven siblings. His parents emigrated to Australia from South Sudan, and the athlete now views track and field as his primary path to global recognition.
All eyes will turn to the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane. As a local competitor, Gout is expected to be a central figure in the event held in his home country.
