Gatlin is married to Jeneice and has two sons, including Jace. He speaks English and enjoys supporting the New Orleans Saints American football team. His sporting philosophy is to "stay focused on who you are, retain your hunger and keep your circle small."

Career Highlights

Gatlin's career has seen numerous accolades. He was named Best Male Track and Field Athlete at the 2006 ESPY Awards. He also received the Jesse Owens Award from USA Track and Field in 2004 and 2005. His hero is US sprinter and long jumper Carl Lewis.

Injuries and Challenges

Gatlin faced several injuries throughout his career. In September 2019, he suffered a left hamstring injury during the 100m at the World Challenge event in Zagreb, Croatia. Despite this, he won gold and silver medals at the 2019 World Championships in Doha, Qatar.

During the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Gatlin was troubled by an ankle injury during his 200m semifinal, failing to qualify for the final. In 2011, he competed at the World Championships in Daegu despite suffering from frostbite after entering a cryogenic chamber with wet socks.

Retirement Thoughts

In 2019, Gatlin considered retiring after the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. However, after the Games were postponed to 2021, he confirmed his intention to compete at age 39. He expressed that resting his body and staying focused would help him return re-energised for 2021.

Documentary Project

In 2020, Gatlin worked on a documentary titled "Gatlin UNTOLD." He aimed to share his life experiences candidly through this project. He wanted to address questions people often asked him about his career and personal life.

Sanctions and Medal Return

Gatlin's career also faced controversies. In 2001, he tested positive for an amphetamine at the US junior championships. Initially banned for two years, his suspension was reduced to one year after it was confirmed that the substance came from medication for attention deficit disorder.

In 2006, Gatlin tested positive for elevated testosterone at the Kansas Relays. The US Anti-Doping Agency gave him an eight-year suspension, later reduced to four years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. He returned to competitive sports in July 2010.

In 2015, the International Olympic Committee stripped the USA's 4x100m relay team of their silver medals from the 2012 Olympic Games due to a doping suspension received by teammate Tyson Gay. Gatlin was part of this team and had to return his medal.

Gatlin's journey in athletics has been marked by significant achievements and challenges. As he continues to focus on his ambitions, his story remains one of resilience and determination.