Life is unpredictable—and US teenage track and field phenom Quincy Wilson is learning that the hard way. In 2024, Wilson was one of the biggest stars. Fans were going gaga over the teen sensation. Unfortunately, as the new year came in, the hype around Wilson faded away. Additionally, after suffering a series of losses in VA Showcase and Millrose Games. This led to many fans began criticizing him. However, Olympians and All-Americans have revealed a different side of Wilson’s story.

It seems like the pressure really got to him after losing against Andrew Salvodon and Will Sumner. Although he did deliver a few solid performances in between, Wilson once again lost his high school meet at the Florida Relays recently. This time, it was Tywan Cox who beat him with a time of 45.14s. So, what happened to track and field’s ‘next big thing’? Is it entirely Wilson’s own fault? Well, experts say ‘certainly not!’ 

Looking into the sudden dip in Wilson’s form, Olympian Darrell Hill had a plausible explanation. He stated that the main cause of the dip in Wilson’s performance was that he was being burnt out. Hill suggested that Wilson may be over competing by trying to run in nearly every event.” “I know I’m not supposed to say this but… that kid needs a break. I was so shocked when I seen him open his indoor season in January after all of those races last season. He’s got an opportunity for a long career, but it’s gonna take some planning,” wrote Hill on his X account. Surely, this is a valid point. Wilson has been performing at a stretch since the last season. 

And with so much high-octane competition, fatigue is bound to set in. Adhering to Hill’s opinion, several All-Americans and Olympians too, chimed in with their takes. Guess what? Most of them felt Hill’s sentiment. All-American Derek Johnson stated that what Hill said might be partially true. However, Johnson also stated that if Wilson was having fun running every event then he must continue. However, if Wilson is feeling stressed out, then he must rethink his decisions.

Likewise, Tabarie Henry said that it might not be a matter of fatigue. A simple explanation might be that high school athletes are no longer afraid of Wilson. Finally, Rugby Olympian, Carlin Isles supported Hill’s analysis and wrote, “Facts!” Thus, it is evident that the debate will surely go on for a long time. However, looking ahead in his career, Wilson has laid out his NCAA aims.

Quincy Wilson weighs NCAA future amid NIL boom after Olympic fame

Quincy Wilson is at a crossroads. But he’s navigating it with surprising clarity. With the world at his feet—an Olympic gold, a history-making New Balance NIL deal, and offers from top colleges like Texas A&M—he’s not rushing into the spotlight just yet. The rising star recently addressed the swirling talk about whether he’ll dive into the NCAA scene, go pro, or stick with his roots a bit longer.

In a sit-down with Citius Mag, Quincy revealed what’s truly steering his decision-making. The teenage phenom stated, “For me, academics always come first. Nobody can ever take your academics away from you. I always stand by that.” It’s a bold statement in an era where young athletes are often fast-tracked toward professional glory. But Quincy is playing the long game—one that allows him to honor both his future and his present. “This year, we’re coming back more prepared and really have our eye on something that we want to accomplish,” he added. His words clearly referenced the goals he currently shares with his high school team.

Wilson, who made history in September 2023 by becoming one of the youngest American athletes to sign an NIL deal—inking a landmark agreement with New Balance at just 15—has been on a meteoric rise since his freshman year at the Bullis School (MD), where he clocked 45.87 in the 400m at the U.S. U20 Championships.

For young Wilson, loyalty isn’t just a buzzword. It’s his guiding principle. As NIL opportunities boom and college programs circle, the track prodigy is weighing more than money and medals. Behind the scenes, his parents have played a vital role in keeping him grounded. Even after setting records like the indoor 500m world best for 18-year-olds, clocking in at  at the VA Showcase. And running a blistering 45.66 400m in January 2025, Quincy still hands over his phone at home, does chores, and lives like any other high school student—thanks to a family that rarely brings up track. He clearly aims at carving a path with purpose. And the NCAA may be next. What do you think the young prodigy’s future holds?