'He's the yang, I am the ying!' — Kishane Thompson on the pivotal role twin brother has played in shaping him

Olympic 100m silver medalist Kishane Thompsohas not only captured attention on the track but also warmed hearts with his deep, unbreakable bond with his fraternal twin brother, Kishan.

The Jamaican sprinter, who has recorded the fastest 100m time in 2024, spoke passionately about how his brother has always been his anchor in the days building up to the Paris Olympic games this August.

During a brief conversation with sports journalist , Thompson reflected on his performance and expressed gratitude for both his injury-free season and the constant support he’s received.

Kishane Thompson has expressed admiration for the high standards Usain Bolt set in sprinting that churned out a generation of other sprinters that clocked sub 9.8 speeds.

 “My coach, he’s been really supportive. Really supportive. I couldn’t ask for more,” he said, praising MVP Track Club head coach Stephen Francis for guiding him through his journey so far.

However, Thompson’s deepest connection lies not on the track but with his twin brother, Kishan. Speaking about their unique bond, he affectionately referred to their relationship using the Chinese philosophy of Yin and Yang.

 «My half. My Yang. I’m Ying; he’s Yang. If you guys know philosophy, you know Yin and Yang is balance. He has always been there for me,» Thompson said.

The concept of Yin and Yang, originating from Chinese philosophy, represents complementary forces that, despite being opposites, depend on one another to form a complete, harmonious whole. 

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Thompson’s description of his brother as his “Yang” speaks to the closeness and mutual support that has defined their relationship throughout their lives.

This bond was perhaps most evident in a life-changing decision Thompson made after graduating from high school. Despite being offered an overseas scholarship to Iowa Western Community College, For Thompson, family and loyalty outweighed any athletic opportunity.

 His choice not only spoke volumes about his character but also reinforced the depth of his connection to his brother.

The twins also share a symbolic reminder of their love and mutual support — an amulet they both wear, which represents their motivation and inspiration for one another.

 In a pre-race ritual that has become a signature of his performances, Thompson kisses the amulet before settling into the blocks, a gesture that symbolizes his deep connection to Kishan and the strength he draws from their relationship.

In a separate interview with , Thompson reiterated this sentiment, stating, “He’s the yan, I am the ying”