Botswana’s sprinting sensation Letsile Tebogo has spent the past year rewriting history, smashing African records, claiming Olympic gold, and cementing himself as one of the most electrifying talents in track and field. But his recent foray into the 400m has sparked unexpected criticism, leaving fans questioning whether the 21-year-old phenom has hit a wall.
However, Olympic champion Justin Gatlin, isn’t about to let a few doubters overshadow Tebogo’s undeniable potential.
A rocky transition to the 400m
Tebogo’s 2025 season opened with a challenge, conquering the 400m, a grueling test of speed and endurance far removed from his signature 100m and 200m dominance. At the ASA Grand Prix in Pretoria, he clocked 45.42 seconds, finishing behind training partner Bayapo Ndori’s 44.59. The result sent shockwaves through the track world, not because it was a bad time, but because Tebogo’s name has become synonymous with breaking barriers.
Former U.S. sprinter Rodney Green acknowledged the concerns on the Ready Set Go podcast, noting Tebogo’s slower start this season. But Gatlin, shut down the negativity.
“They’re young athletes, and they’re going to take a couple of their L’s along the way,” Gatlin said.
“Dominance isn’t built in a day.”
The bigger picture: Progress over perfection
Unlike last year, when Tebgo faded in longer races, his 2025 performances show a more calculated approach. At the Maurie Plant Meet in Melbourne, he ran 45.26, again behind Ndori, but with smarter pacing and a stronger finish.
“He’s progressively coming down and maintaining a solidified time,” Green observed.
“It’s definitely not like last year.”
The 400m is a beast of its own, demanding a blend of raw speed and tactical patience. Tebogo’s willingness to embrace the challenge, despite inevitable setbacks, speaks volumes about his champion’s mindset.
From Olympic Glory to National Hero
Just eight months ago, Letsile Tebogo was standing atop the Paris Olympics podium after a jaw-dropping 19.46 in the 200m, securing Botswana’s first-ever gold. The nation erupted in celebration, declaring August 9 a national holiday and gifting him two houses. His other feats, a 9.86 100m, a world-best 30.69 300m, and the 2024 World Athlete of the Year honor, prove his rare talent.
But greatness isn’t linear. Michael Jordan missed game-winners. Usain Bolt false-started in a World Championship final. Tebogo’s “struggles” in the 400m aren’t a decline, they’re the necessary growing pains of a legend in the making.
What’s next for Tebogo?
The 400m experiment isn’t just about adding another event; it’s about building the endurance to dominate the 200m and relays.
“He’s learning how to tame, 400m, one lap at a time,” Gatlin emphasized.
With the World Championships looming, Tebogo’s resilience will be tested. But if history tells us anything, it’s that counting him out is a mistake. As Gatlin put it: “Champions take losses. What matters is how they come back.”