Adam Gemili Retires from Athletics at 32

At 32, Adam Gemili, the former European sprint champion, has officially ended his athletic career. His path to fame began as a youth footballer with Chelsea, later joining Dagenham & Redbridge in League Two, before transitioning to sprinting. A standout moment came in 2012 when he ran 100m in 10.08 seconds, securing his place as the second-fastest British junior in history.

Gemili represented Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics, reaching the semi-finals in the 100m. He also claimed relay medals across three World Championships. In 2014, he secured European gold in the 200m, while earning Commonwealth Games silver in the same event that summer. A video of his 2014 victory is available for viewing.

“It’s hard to put into words what an incredible journey it’s been. Thank you for all the support, love, and belief you’ve shown me throughout my career. From a baby-faced Adam at London 2012 to a slightly more grey-haired version in 2025. I hope I’ve made you proud,” Gemili shared on his Instagram page.

Though he achieved notable success, Gemili narrowly missed out on more medals. He finished fourth in the 200m at the Rio 2016 Olympics, just 0.003 seconds from bronze, and repeated this in the Doha 2019 World Athletics Championships. Alongside Zharnel Hughes and Linford Christie, he is one of three British male sprinters to have run under 10 seconds in the 100m and under 20 seconds in the 200m, with personal bests of 9.97 seconds and 19.97 seconds respectively.

Gemili admitted to hating athletics during his later years, hinting at a potential return to football. His retirement marks the end of a storied career filled with highs and close calls, as he reflects on his legacy in the sport.