Gout Gout has been a rising star since breaking the national U18 200m record at 15 and clocking a wind-assisted 19.98 in the 200m. The Queensland native, born to South Sudanese parents, has drawn global attention with his blistering pace. But on March 29, 2025, the 17-year-old Australian sprint sensation was struck by a major upset that rocked the Maurie Plant Meet in Melbourne.
Gout, competing in his first senior race, was outrun by Lachlan Kennedy, a 21-year-old who slashed his personal best to 20.26, securing the win under the bright lights of Lakeside Stadium. Gout, despite a strong effort, finished second with a 20.30, unable to match Kennedy’s late surge in front of a sold-out crowd. Fans on X were quick to react, some fans expressed concern about the hype surrounding Gout.
One X user even warned, “This is a huge blow to the image of athletics!” But as the young speedster is dealing with this lieu of online criticisms, the fact of the matter remains that he was outdone in every way possible.
Upset in Melbourne
’s Lachlan Kennedy storms to a 20.26 PB in the 200m at the Maurie Plant Meet
He edges out world leader Gout Gout, who ran 20.30 for the in his first senior competition #ContinentalTourGold pic.twitter.com/XoWdtEwwKS
— World Athletics (@WorldAthletics) March 29, 2025
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