![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Christian-Miller-IG.jpg?width=600)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Christian-Miller-IG.jpg?width=600)
Christian Miller has had an exciting season so far. After turning heads at the Pure Athletics Invitational in April, the 18-year-old found himself at the U.S. Olympic Trials at Hayward Field in June. Roughly a month out of high school, the sprinter was already paving the way for an incredibly bright future. The Jacksonville native was looking forward to making his Olympic debut in the French capital, but in the men’s 100m finals, he finished fifth leaving his dream hanging by a thread.
The fastest high schooler still held on to his hopes of making it to the 4x100m team. However, he soon found out he won’t be making the trip to Paris. Even after receiving this heartbreaking news, he shifted his focus to preparing for LA2028. But on July 26, the sprinter shared some exciting news with his fans on Instagram. The 18-year-old will now be focusing on being a full-time track and field athlete. He captioned the post, “My story has just begun…Dreams2️⃣Reality❤️” The USATF U20 champion doesn’t want to let go of the track just yet!
Looking back on his journey so far, Miller stated, “I want to start by thanking God for the amazing opportunities that have opened up for me over the past few weeks.” He then thanks his support system for helping him navigate through all the highs and lows, leading him to this decision. “Also, thank you to the University of Georgia’s staff, student athletes, and my fellow recruits for their support and professionalism. I will always be a Bulldog at heart.” The sprinter finally sheds some light on what the future holds for him.
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Polls of the day
Poll 1 of 5
Who do you think will have the biggest impact on the track and field scene this year?
Christian Miller
Noah Lyles
Other big stars
Newcomers
Which Simone Biles move do you think is the most iconic?
Biles on Vault
Biles on Floor
Biles on Beam
Biles II on Floor
Whats your Perspective on:
Can Christian Miller's latest move elevate him to the same legendary status as Noah Lyles?
Have an interesting take?
Do you think Novak Djokovic's religious turn will help him win the elusive Olympic gold?
Yes, it's a game-changer
No, it's just a distraction
Maybe, only time will tell
Who cares, it's all about skill
Do you think the Paris Olympics will face the same challenges as Usain Bolt's era?
Yes
No
Maybe
Not sure
Christian Miller then drops the ball, “After weeks of consultation with my family, mentors, and coaches, I have decided to forgo my NCAA eligibility and pursue a professional career as a full-time track and field athlete. I’m excited for what comes next and can’t wait to bring you all on this journey with me.” Post his record-breaking performances in 2023, several college coaches were looking to have him on their squad. The Jacksonville native eventually settled for the University of Georgia.
At the historic Hayward Field, the fastest high schooler stepped on the track to solidify himself as the one to beat. In the 100m heats, he sprinted to the finish line in 10.22 seconds, securing a place in the semi-finals. He turned things around in the semi-finals with a stellar time of 9.94 seconds. With this, he was one step closer to achieving his first Olympic berth. However, he soon realized, it wasn’t meant to be. His time of 9.98 seconds wasn’t good enough for the French capital.
Refusing to let this hold him back, Christian Miller will continue to shatter the glass ceiling as he looks to dominate the tracks from here on. He will be moving forward with his long-time coach at the St. Johns Striders Track Club, Ricky Fields. It is undeniable that the 18-year-old has left his mark at the trials, and won’t stop reaching for the stars.
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What’s your perspective on:
Can Christian Miller's latest move elevate him to the same legendary status as Noah Lyles?
Have an interesting take?
Christian Miller set to prove himself as a formidable competitor
At the Pure Athletics Invitational earlier this year, the sprinter brushed shoulders with corps d’elit like Noah Lyles and Fred Kerley. He had once stated how watching professional athletes compete had him wish he was out there, running by their side. In the 100m sprint, the 18-year-old left his competitors in the dust with a insane time of 9.93 seconds. The sprinter had effortlessly set a new American U20 record. He quickly ascended to the third position on the all-time World Under-20 list.
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1638674165.jpg?width=150&blur=15)
via Getty
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – AUGUST 25: Noah Lyles of Team United States celebrates winning the Men’s 200m Final during day seven of the World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023 at National Athletics Centre on August 25, 2023 in Budapest, Hungary. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images for World Athletics)
The Jacksonville native’s time at the invitational put him at the top of the World Athletics list as the new world lead. However, this was also the second time an athlete ran a under sub-10, making this feat even more monumental. But this wasn’t the only time Miller impressed the track and field community. At the New Balance Nationals Outdoor, the sprinter clocked 9.95 seconds. He racked up an impressive wind-legal time of 20.51 seconds at the Bob Hayes Invitational. In May, he clocked in 20.15 seconds, making this all conditions best.
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Christian Miller shares one common factor with his competition. Athletes like Erriyon Knighton and Noah Lyles had exception high school seasons too. Just like the 18-year-old, they decided to turn professional instead of pursuing a collegiate career. With his decision to continue as a professional athlete, we might get the chance to witness his impeccable talent on the track. Seeing how he has already crossed paths with several track stars this season, what does the future hold for him?
Debate
Can Christian Miller's latest move elevate him to the same legendary status as Noah Lyles?