SAINT-DENIS, France — Quincy Hall, representing the United States, triumphed in the men’s 400-meter final at the 2024 Summer Olympics, marking a significant resurgence for American athletes in an event they historically dominated.
The race unfolded dramatically at the Stade de France, with Hall initially trailing in sixth place for much of the first 200 meters. As the race progressed, Hall steadily gained ground, entering the final stretch in fourth position. In a breathtaking display of determination, he surged past Great Britain’s Matthew Hudson-Smith just before the finish line to claim victory.
“I don’t give up, man. I just grit. I grind. I got determination. Anything I can think of that’s gonna get me to that line, I think of it,” Hall remarked in reflection of his stunning comeback.
Hall attributed the blistering pace of the race to his competitors, particularly acknowledging Hudson-Smith and bronze medalist Muzala Samukonga of Zambia, who set a formidable tempo early on.
“I knew these guys were gonna get out and they were gonna come for blood early. They were going to go out and try to see who they could throw off the race,” Hall explained.
The victory was a personal best for the 26-year-old athlete, clocking in at 43.4 seconds, which also ranks as the fifth-fastest time ever recorded in the event. Celebrating his achievement, Hall took a victory lap around the stadium draped in the American flag after removing his shoes.
“When they shot that gun, I knew I had it,” Hall confidently asserted when asked about the pivotal moment he realized he would win.
This triumph marks the 20th time the United States has secured gold in the men’s 400-meter race throughout Olympic history, reaffirming its legacy in the sport after a period of relative struggle in recent years.
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