The Bahamian track and field prodigy Steven Gardiner had a fateful beginning to the World Athletics Championships last year when the runner was wheeled off after sustaining an injury on the Budapest track during the semi-finals. It was reported that the unfavorable conditions of the championships were the reason behind his injury, and the reigning 400-meter Olympic champion met with an upsetting end after a Grade 1 tendon sprain in his right posterior thigh that extended into the knee. Well, that’s all in the past, and the 2019 world champion has returned to reclaim the crown that he never lost.

The 28-year-old has started to blaze the tracks of his home country once again as he secured a podium finish in the Miami Hurricane Invitational. After winning the race, Gardiner talked about his mental toughness during the recovery days.

Steven Gardiner marks a comeback in style

After he was done and dusted with the race, the runner gave Fitz Dunk a quick trackside interview that he posted on his Instagram. When asked about how he dealt with the injury mentally, the two time Olympic medalist replied, “It was tough for me; I cried about it and but the next day I just shook it off, and you know what happened happened. I couldn’t change it; I didn’t question God about why me.” The 400-meter icon further added that he put all that behind him and moved on.

Well, that mentality kind of reflected in his performance at the Miami Hurricane Invitational, when the Bahamian phenom won the 300-meter sprint with a 31.99-second finish. He also talked about the race and expressed his joy after winning the event. According to him, and it was a great win, to open the 2024 season. With all that being said, Steven Gardiner is looking to make it big at the Paris Olympics and wants to hit the event in style, defending his title.

Focused on retaining his title in Paris

The world champion did not hold back and told the media that he, along with his doctors and coach, are focused on taking it one step at a time. By going at a steady pace, he will be ready for the Paris spectacle. He also added that he wants to stay in his best shape to be fit when he hits the French soil without having to be worried about his knee.

He also cleared his thoughts that hitting the bullseye is his main aim, which means he is coming for the gold, thus posing a challenge to his competitors. With everything falling back into place for Steven Gardiner, he will surely be an athlete to watch out for at the upcoming Olympics, and his season opener speaks volumes about his preparations.

Read More: Video: Brutal Conditions Land 400M World Champion in a Wheelchair Amidst Budapest 2023