Australian sprint prodigy Gout Gout, 17, faced the international media in Tokyo on Monday ahead of his senior competition debut at the World Athletics Championships. The Ipswich Grammar student, who will compete in the 200m on Wednesday, admitted to feeling nervous as he walked out to face journalists, describing the attention as 'a bit surreal'.
Gout, who is faster than Usain Bolt at the same age, has been promoted by his sponsor Adidas and World Athletics as one of the faces of the meet. During the 45-minute press conference, he discussed his family's journey from South Sudan to Brisbane, his love for video games like Fortnite and Minecraft, and his favourite foods—pizza and burgers.
Despite his rapid rise, Gout emphasised the importance of patience. 'Balancing that ambition and telling myself it takes time is definitely something important,' he said. 'I struggled a bit during the start of my career but now I know that things don't happen overnight. Like, I'm only 17.'
Gout credited his parents, Bona and Monica, for instilling focus, motivation, and integrity in him. He also praised his coach Di Sheppard and acknowledged a close connection with American star Noah Lyles, who provides advice and tips. Looking ahead, Gout is considering studying psychology at university and hopes to leave a legacy as an inspiration to others.
