Australia’s sprinting scene is on the cusp of a historic breakthrough, with four exceptional athletes edging closer to breaching the elusive 10-second barrier in the 100 meters. This milestone, achieved by only a select few globally, signifies entry into the elite echelons of sprinting. Let’s delve into the profiles of these four Australian sprinters and assess who might be the next to etch their name into the record books.
Rohan Browning
Rohan Browning has been at the forefront of Australian sprinting in recent years. In January 2021, he clocked a wind-assisted 9.96 seconds at the Illawarra Track Challenge, becoming the second Australian to break the 10-second mark under any conditions, following Patrick Johnson’s 9.93 seconds in 2003. Despite the wind assistance rendering the time ineligible for official records, Browning’s performance showcased his potential. In April 2023, he clinched the national title with a time of 10.02 seconds, narrowly missing the sub-10 mark but reaffirming his status as a top contender.
Joshua Azzopardi
Emerging as a formidable force, Joshua Azzopardi has demonstrated significant progress. In March 2025, he recorded a personal best of 10.09 seconds at the Perth Classic, signaling his rapid development. Azzopardi’s trajectory suggests that he is edging closer to the sub-10-second milestone, and his recent performances indicate that he could soon join the exclusive club of sprinters who have achieved this feat.
Gout Gout
At just 16 years old, Gout Gout has taken the athletics world by storm. In December 2024, he shattered longstanding records by running a wind-assisted 10.04 seconds in the 100 meters and an astounding 20.04 seconds in the 200 meters, the latter surpassing Peter Norman’s 1968 Dubbed the “next Usain Bolt,” Gout’s potential is immense, and with continued development, he is poised to make history.
Jack Hale
Jack Hale has been a prominent figure in Australian sprinting, known for his explosive speed and competitive performances. While he has consistently posted impressive times, he is yet to officially break the 10-second barrier. Hale’s dedication to the sport and continuous improvement keep him in the conversation as a potential sub-10-second sprinter.
Who Will Break the Barrier Next?
Predicting who among these talented sprinters will next officially break the 10-second barrier is challenging. Browning’s experience and proximity to the mark make him a strong candidate. Azzopardi’s recent personal best indicates he’s on the cusp, while Gout’s extraordinary talent, despite his youth, cannot be overlooked. Hale’s consistent performances also position him as a contender. Ultimately, factors such as training, competition conditions, and individual progression will determine who etches their name into history next.
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