“There is some type of respect that we should have when we are there.” says Quincy Wilson, a 17-year-old track phenom from Bullis School, who has been lighting up the 400m with jaw-dropping consistency. Clocking times in the 44- to 45-second range, he’s not just fast, he’s redefining what’s possible for a high schooler.
His crowning moment came at the 2025 New Balance Nationals on 21 June, where he defended his championship title with a blistering performance of 45.37s, cementing his status as a rising star. Yet, despite his success, Wilson faced a wave of online trolling, with critics taking aim at the teenager’s consistency. How does a kid this talented face such backlash?
Enter Justin Gatlin, the Olympic gold medalist and sprinting legend, who wasn’t about to let the trolls have the last word. In a passionate segment on his YouTube channel Ready Set Go, Gatlin unleashed a heartfelt defense of Wilson. “I don’t understand how you have trolls when you’re a 16-year-old phenom who runs 4.4s and 4.5s almost every time you run. Who can hate on that? That’s crazy to me,” Gatlin said, his disbelief palpable. He didn’t stop there, showering praise on Wilson’s work ethic and impact. “Shoutout to Q-Dub, man—Quincy, you’re doing your thing. Love how you’re doing it.” But what makes Wilson’s success so contagious?
Track & Field: USATF Indoor Championships press conference, PK, Pressekonferenz Feb 21, 2025 Staten Island, NY, USA Quincy Wilson during USATF Indoor Championships training session at Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex. Staten Island Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex New York United States, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xKirbyxLeex 20250221_ajw_al2_248
Gatlin highlighted Wilson’s influence beyond his own races, noting how he’s elevating his Bullis teammates. “Not only are you changing the game for yourself, but your teammates at Bullis too. Clearly, it’s contagious, because you have so many athletes on that side making their marks of greatness too,” Gatlin said. He also gave a nod to Coach Joe Lee, crediting him for fostering a powerhouse program. Wilson’s consistency, running sub-45 seconds repeatedly at just 17, is a testament to both his talent and Lee’s guidance. So, why does Gatlin’s support matter so much?
For a young athlete like Wilson, having a veteran like Gatlin in his corner is huge. It’s not just about shutting down trolls; it’s about showing the track world that greatness deserves respect, not criticism. Gatlin’s words remind us to celebrate young stars, not tear them down. What’s next for Wilson as he continues to blaze his trail?
Quincy Wilson’s 2025 Season Races
Quincy Wilson burst into 2025 with a bang at the Millrose Games on February 8, where the 17‑year‑old high‑school phenom ran 1:16.20 to place second in the pro 600 m, marking the U.S. high‑school #2 all‑time indoor performance. Can you already feel the momentum building?
Just weeks earlier, on February 2 at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix in Boston, Wilson shattered the U18 world indoor best in the 400 m with a 45.66, claiming high‑school national record honors. So, with that record in hand, could the outdoor season possibly top it?
Fast forward to June 21 at Franklin Field: at the New Balance Nationals Outdoor Championships, Wilson defended his 400 m title, finishing in 45.37, his sixth straight national crown either indoors or outdoors That same performance helped secure a Bullis School record in the 4×400 m relay, clocked at 3:08.28, smashing a long‑standing meet record. How does a high‑school junior repeatedly erase history like this?
Adding to his accolades, the Gatorade Maryland Boys Track & Field Player of the Year award recognized him for winning the 400 m at the Pepsi Florida Relays in 45.27, ranking him third nationally among prep competitors this spring, as well as conference titles in the 200 m (21.32) and 400 m (45.65). What’s next on the horizon?
Looking ahead, Wilson’s string of elite indoor marks and pressure-proof outdoor performances hints he’s proving ready for a higher stage. With Diamond League and pro‑level meets looming, can this Olympic‑gold anchor transform his prep‑season dominance into senior‑level fireworks?
The post Quincy Wilson Receives Track and Field Legend’s Support After Trolls Questioned Teen Sensation’s Consistency appeared first on EssentiallySports.
