Nico Young stunned the track world by breaking the American record in the men’s 5000m at the Diamond League meet in Oslo.
The 22‑year‑old clocked an incredible 12 minutes 45.27 seconds, beating the previous American record of 12 46.96 set by Grant Fisher in 2022.
This record‑shattering run took place at the celebrated Bislett Games, a highlight of the Diamond League series hosted at Oslo’s historic Bislett Stadium.
Nico’s previous outdoor personal best in the 5000m was 13 11.30 set in 2022, which didn’t even rank him among the top 30 Americans at the time.
Standing tall at 12 45.27, he not only smashed his own barrier but also ushered in a new era of American distance running.
His indoor mark of 12 51.56 from earlier this spring already placed him fifth all‑time worldwide and second among American indoors behind Fisher’s 12 44.09.
But Nico’s story goes beyond his record times.
He made history in 2024, becoming the first openly gay male U.S. track and field athlete to qualify for the Olympics, when he earned his spot in the 10,000m at the U.S. trials, clocking 27 52.40 .
Related: Nico Young Prepares for Debut as First Out Gay U.S. Track Star
Nico has shared that he came out on Instagram in 2022, writing, “I am living proof that it is not a choice… I have struggled to accept myself, but I am becoming more proud and happy with who I am.”
That statement resonated deeply with fans around the world and positioned him as a beacon of representation and resilience for the LGBTQ+ community .
His journey began as a standout high school distance runner in Southern California and later as a record‑setter at Northern Arizona University.
Young credits his success to the support he’s found in both the athletic and LGBTQ+ communities.
His recent Adidas NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal highlights an important cultural shift, with major brands embracing openly LGBTQ+ athletes .
That collaboration demonstrates that brands recognize both his athletic excellence and the positive social impact of his authenticity.
Nico is currently training at altitude in Font‑Romeu‑Odeillo‑Via, France, gearing up for the 10,000m race at the Paris Olympics in August.
He shared photos from his training base in the Pyrenees, reflecting his dedication and readiness for one of the biggest stages in sport .
Looking ahead, his story is inspiring fans and fellow athletes alike.
Not only is he rewriting the record books, he’s also showing the power of being true to yourself.
Nico’s run in Oslo wasn’t just a race—it was a message of courage, progress, and representation.
With Team USA and the global track community rooting for him, we can’t wait to see him shine under the lights of Paris this summer.
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