Team USA’s Men’s Relay medal drought will continue to persist, at least until LA28. The track and field team had high hopes from its men’s relay pool in Paris, but things didn’t go their way. Sprinters such as Kenny Bednarek failed to deliver during the 4×100m relay despite earning silver in the 200m. So, Bednarek had a lengthy message for everyone.

“2x Olympian and 2x Silver Medalist.” the sprinter wrote on X. The 25-year-old was acutely aware of the disappointment that fans felt because of the disqualification. At the end of the day, he was directly involved in the missed baton hand-off with Christian Coleman. The incident marked the 11th such offense for the men’s relay team since 1995 across all major international events.

However, Kenny Bednarek isn’t ready to rest on his laurels after infuriating track legend Carl Lewis. “Representing my country and Team USA is an honor I’ll never take lightly. Competing in three events this year has taught me so much, and it’s only fueled my hunger for more,” explained Bednarek. Instead, the 25-year-old plans to redeem himself and made a huge promise to the fans he disappointed.

“LA 2028 is in my sights and I’m aiming for one thing: 3 gold medals. I’m filled with gratitude for this incredible journey. Walking onto the track and hearing the crowd roar my name every single time is a feeling I’ll never forget,” added the sprinter. The world championship silver medalist also thanks his family and fans for the support they showed throughout the Olympic Games.

Despite the disappointing end to his final event in Paris, Bednarek never felt abandoned by the fans. In fact, “Kung Fu Kenny” admitted that it was this universal support that helped him succeed in the 200m individual sprint.

Kenny Bednarek maintains his 200m streak

While Bednarek won silver in the 200m dash in Tokyo, Noah Lyles was the favorite to win the event this year. Lyles who finished third in Tokyo is the defending world champion. He also holds the third-fastest 200m time in history. Yet, the 200m gold continued to elude Lyles in Paris, as he once again finished in third and later revealed that he ran despite suffering from COVID-19.

However, as Team USA’s 200m golden dream seemed to crumble, Kenny Bednarek emerged as a dependable athlete. Although he couldn’t defeat Letsile Tebogo, the 25-year-old secured his second 200m Olympic gold in Paris. This achievement has been pivotal in inspiring ‘Kung Fu Kenny.’

After two silver back-to-back silvers, Bednarek now believes he can convert silver to gold at LA2028. Will the Rice Lake native’s determination and home advantage be enough to propel him to individual and relay gold? Unfortunately, the four-year-long wait has just begun.