Kenny Bednarek is an elite American sprinter and Olympic medalist specializing in the 100 and 200 meters. Known for his consistency, speed, and competitive mindset, Bednarek has established himself as one of the world’s premier short sprinters.

Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and raised in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, Bednarek began running track as a child alongside his twin brother. He became a standout at Rice Lake High School, winning seven individual state titles and setting Wisconsin state records in the 100, 200, and 400 meters.

Bednarek continued his development at Indian Hills Community College, where he quickly emerged as a national standout. In 2019, he won NJCAA national titles in both the 200 and 400 meters and demonstrated his extraordinary range by becoming one of the few athletes to run sub-20 seconds in the 200 and sub-45 seconds in the 400 on the same day.

Turning professional with Nike in 2019, Bednarek rapidly established himself on the international stage. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, he won silver in the 200 meters with a personal-best 19.68 seconds and finished the 2021 season ranked No. 1 in the world in the event. He followed that performance with another 200-meter silver at the 2022 World Championships.

At the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Bednarek reached the finals of both the 100 and 200 meters, earning his second consecutive Olympic silver medal in the 200 meters with a 19.62-second performance.

In 2025, Bednarek captured the U.S. national title in the 100 meters with a personal-best 9.79 seconds and dominated the inaugural Grand Slam Track season, winning three event categories and being named Racer of the Year.

Bednarek continues to compete among the world’s fastest sprinters, bringing championship experience and elite-level performance to every race.