Christian Miller set the track and field world on fire this season with a string of electrifying performances. At the U.S. Olympic Trials in Hayward Field, he kept the momentum going, turning heads and raising expectations. But despite his promise, he fell short of his Olympic dream, finishing fifth and narrowly missing his ticket to Paris. With the dream of competing in the French capital slipping away, Miller made a quick pivot. Instead of dwelling on disappointment, he set his sights on the next big challenge: LA 2028. Determined to come back stronger, he’s ready to turn his near miss into fuel for a comeback.

With that goal in mind, the 18-year-old surprised his fans with a shocking announcement on August 26. Previously having committed to the University of Georgia, he made the bold decision of going professional. “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.” While he didn’t live out his Olympic dreams, another athlete debuted on the world’s biggest stage.

Meet Louie Hinchliffe. After his successful stint at the Paris Olympics – where he won a bronze in the 4x100m event, the sprinter has decided to forego his NCAA eligibility to go down the same path as Christian Miller. The 22-year-old broke the news on his Instagram on August 29. “What a season it’s been. I’ve experienced the highest of highs in my first year at the University of Houston. I’ve become an NCAA Champion, a National Champion, and an Olympic semi-finalist all whilst living out my dreams as a Cougar.” It truly couldn’t have gotten better than that.

The sprinter continued, “With that being said, after speaking to my family I have decided to forego the remainder of my collegiate eligibility and embark on a career as a professional athlete.” He then thanks his coaches, Will Blackburn and Carl Lewis, for supporting him throughout his journey. “I hope that someday I can give back as much as you both have given to me.” The 22-year-old also thanks his operational staff, the rest of his coaching staff, the sports medicine department and the student managers who he credits for the success he achieved.

Finally, Louie Hinchliffe thanks everyone at the university. “To our fans and friends at the University of Houston, thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me an extended family. I hope to do you proud in this next phase of life. Go Coogs!,” he stated. Just like Christian Miller, the athlete decided after getting a taste of the professional track. The season has truly been incredible for the sprinter as he checked a few things off his list. But what has his journey to the top been like? Let’s find out.

Louie Hinchliffe’s insane 2024 season

Under Olympic Legend Carl Lewis’ guidance, the 22-year-old had a strong start off the blocks. Having gained a comfortable lead, he blazed past the finish line in an impressive 9.95 seconds. He became the first European to win the NCAA 100 title on June 7. With his tremendous time, he is now recognized as the 100m sixth fastest Briton of all time. However, shortly after, his speed surprised everyone at yet another event.

Contesting at the 2024 British Athletics Championships in Manchester, he blazed past his competitors and seized his first national 100m title with a stellar time of 10.18 seconds on June 29th. Trailing behind him were Jeremiah Azu and CJ Ujah, who crossed the finish line in 10.25 seconds and 10.37 seconds on the clock. He is now the first sprinter to claim the NCAA British and NCAA Division 1 titles in the same season. With this, he was through to the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The sprinter was over the moon. He contested in the 100m and 4x100m events at Stade de France. Even though he beat Noah Lyles in the heats, he couldn’t move past the semis despite clocking in 9.97 seconds. However, he didn’t leave the French capital empty-handed. Louie Hinchliffe claimed his maiden Olympic medal in the 4x100m event. Team GB completed the podium behind Canada and South Africa. Yet, this young prodigy still has a long way to go. Will we watch him cross paths with Christian Miller at some point? Tell us below.

We don’t want you to leave just yet. If you know who Madisen Skinner is, you wouldn’t want to miss this week’s Think Tank episode on EssentiallySports. Her coach, a renowned name in American volleyball, reveals a few secrets about his star pupil.