Kenny Bednarek has emerged as one of the big fish in the track and field realm recently. After blazing through the Doha Diamond League with a dazzling 19.67s, Bednarek clinched his ticket to the Paris Olympics. While he didn’t quite snag a podium spot in the 100m, ‘Kung Fu Kenny’ still made his mark in the 200m. In a race that was all the buzz with Noah Lyles’ third-place finish, Bednarek dashed to a 19.62s and snagged the silver medal!

This was Kenny’s second Olympic medal, adding to his 200-meter silver from Tokyo. As track and field fans continue to cheer on ‘Kung Fu Kenny’s meteoric rise, there’s a little-known secret behind his success: his girlfriend, who’s been a rock and a source of support throughout his journey. In return, she’s penned a heartfelt message for her beloved ‘Baby Ken,’ celebrating his incredible achievements and their shared success!

Sharmila Nicollet praises Kenny Bednarek for ‘pushing past limits’ 

Kenny Bednarek and Sharmila Nicollet made their relationship public in 2020 when they posted pictures of themselves enjoying a private vacation together. A golfer by profession, Nicollet became the youngest Indian female golfer to qualify for the Ladies European Tour while being 18 years old. Having been together for four years now, Sharmila Nicollet has been constantly supporting Kenny Bednarek in his quest to become a track and field champion. 

After Bednarek’s recent acknowledgment of his girlfriend’s support, Nicollet took to her Instagram to pen down a lengthy and heartfelt note for her boyfriend. She wrote, “These achievements are more than just medals – it’s a testament to your unwavering dedication, perseverance, pushing past limits, never giving up even when the odds seemed insurmountable and the countless sacrifices you’ve made along the way.” 

The Indian golfer also reflected on the fact that greatness is not only about winning medals but also about keeping the spirits high when the chips were at their lowest. Finally, concluding her statement, Nicollet hoped that this was just the start and that more great things were waiting in line for Bednarek in the future. She wrote, “My heart is full and I couldn’t be prouder of the person you’ve become on and off the track. We are just getting started. Your best is yet to come.” Well, while such a note will surely lift the spirits of Kenny Bednarek significantly, ‘Kung Fu Kenny’ was swift to praise his girlfriend right after his Paris triumph. 

There would be no Kung Fu Kenny without his girlfriend!

Kung Fu Kenny recently chatted with Track Spice, and it’s clear his Olympic success isn’t just about his own hard work—his girlfriend is a major player in his story. Bednarek revealed, “If I didn’t meet my girlfriend in 2020, I wouldn’t be who I am today. There wouldn’t be a Kung Fu Kenny… 90% of the reason why I’m the pro athlete I am today.”

Kenny Bednarek went even deeper on ‘The Running Effect’ podcast, where he shared how Sharmila Nicollet’s support goes beyond the emotional. She’s been pivotal in fine-tuning his diet and connecting him with the right people in the track and field world. Looks like Sharmila Nicollet and Kenny Bednarek are the ultimate dream team. But that’s not all!

On Instagram, Nicollet’s post was a tear-jerker from Kenny Bednarek, saying, “None of this would be possible if it wasn’t for you. Standing by my side and supporting me through all the ups and downs. You have truly helped elevate me as a person and as an athlete. I thank you for all the love and support you have given in the past, present and in the near future as well 😭❤️ I love you.” With such a heartfelt shoutout, how can anyone not see the magic behind this power couple and the significant role Sharmila plays in Kenny’s journey?