Nico Young Makes History as First Out Gay Man to Win U.S. National Track Title

Nico Young, a rising star in American distance running, made history on August 1, 2025, becoming the first openly gay man to win a U.S. national track title. Young secured his landmark victory in the men’s 10,000 meters at the Toyota USATF Outdoor Championships, held at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, outpacing a competitive field that included Olympic medalist Grant Fisher and top collegiate athlete Graham Blanks .

Young’s victory comes just one month after he broke the American outdoor record in the 5,000 meters at the Oslo Diamond League, reinforcing his status as one of the nation’s premier distance runners . The 23-year-old’s triumph is significant not only for its athletic merit but also for its cultural impact, as Young becomes the first out gay man to stand atop the podium at a U.S. national track and field championship—a powerful symbol of progress in a sport where LGBTQ+ representation has historically been limited.

The men’s 10,000-meter final was widely anticipated, featuring a showdown among some of the country’s best distance runners. As the race unfolded, Young, Fisher, and Blanks broke away from the rest of the field with several laps to go. In the final stretch, Young unleashed a decisive finishing kick, surging past Fisher in the last 50 meters to secure the win in dramatic fashion .

“It’s pretty exciting and satisfying,” Young said in a post-race interview. “I didn’t think I’d be winning a national title this early in my career, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come” . Young also reflected on his recent record-breaking performances, noting that his fitness and confidence have grown throughout the season .

Young’s historic victory is resonating far beyond the world of track and field. As the first openly gay man to win a U.S. national title in the sport, he joins a small but growing group of LGBTQ+ athletes who are breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation. His openness about his identity has made him a role model for many in the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in a sport that has often lacked visible queer representation at the elite level.

Athlete advocacy organizations and LGBTQ+ sports networks have celebrated Young’s achievement as a step forward for inclusion and acceptance in athletics. “Nico’s win is more than a personal milestone—it’s a beacon of hope and affirmation for LGBTQ+ youth who aspire to compete at the highest levels,” said a statement from Athlete Ally, a group dedicated to LGBTQ+ equality in sports .

LGBTQ+ representation in sports has been the subject of increasing attention in recent years. While there have been openly gay and transgender athletes in various disciplines, distance running at the national and international level has lagged in visibility. Young’s success, therefore, carries particular weight: he has said in previous interviews that being open about his identity is “essential for authenticity and for helping others feel seen” .

In addition to his athletic and cultural accomplishments, Young’s victory also positions him as a favorite for the upcoming World Championships and a potential contender for future Olympic teams . His rapid ascent in American distance running, paired with his openness about being gay, is challenging stereotypes and setting new standards for what it means to be a champion in track and field.

Young’s story is already inspiring athletes and fans alike. Social media channels lit up with messages of support and congratulations following his win, with many highlighting the importance of visibility and authenticity in sports . As Young continues his career, he remains committed to both his performance goals and to using his platform to advocate for greater inclusivity.

“I want people to know that you can be yourself and still reach the highest levels,” Young said. “That’s true in track and field, and it’s true in life” .

Nico Young’s victory at the 2025 Toyota USATF Outdoor Championships stands as a defining moment for LGBTQ+ inclusion in American sports—a moment that will inspire others to run their own races, on their own terms.