“They on Their Death Bed”: Justin Gatlin Slams Enhanced Games Over Unfair Track and Field Practices

Justin Gatlin might be one of the fastest men on the planet, but he doesn’t want to push too hard. While running fast and breaking records might seem like fun, the health adversities that come along can be dangerous. Who better than the 42-year-old athlete would know this? Recently, while speaking about enhanced games, Gatlin discussed how pushing the limits by ‘enhancing’ one’s body might cause long-term damage. 

Gatlin was expected to be going after Usain Bolt’s record in the Paris Olympics. However, while he did try to outrun the 9:58 clock, the American athlete strictly believes in putting the well-being of one’s body first. 

Justin Gatlin raises concerns for Enhanced Games

Gatlin sat down with the Tidal League and discussed everything sports. Talking about the rapidly changing sporting scenario, Gatlin was questioned about the E+ Games. Expressing significant surprise, the 42-year-old American straightaway rejected the idea of the games being a sustainable one. His first reaction after hearing about the prospect was that it was a “crazy” idea. 

Later, on a more serious note, Gatlin chimed in about the health risks the game might involve. He said that athletes might succeed in running 100m within 8.7 seconds. However, their body would not be able to withstand the sacrifices they made. Gatlin said, “I ran 8.7 seconds 100 meters I am the fastest person on Earth…And then they on their death bed you know what I mean or they on the ventilator because they sacrifice their health for it.”  

What was more surprising is that the host next went on to reveal that some of the enhanced athletes have already broken the 100m world record! Although the name was not disclosed, Gatlin did not think this was a good example of an advertisement for sports going forward. So what’s the buzz with Enhanced Games all about? 

What is E+ Games? 

E+ Games or Enhanced Games is a private sports league that is said to have the backing of the world’s top athletes. A visit to their website will prove to be a shock as it claims the tournament to be the “Olympics of the future.” Here, the athletes are free to use any amount of performance-enhancing drugs as they please. The website states that almost 44% of the world’s professional athletes use performance-enhancing elements, and thus, it must be made legal. 

Read More: “His Legacy Has Inspired…My Track Career”: Justin Gatlin Pays Homage to Kobe Bryant as He Announces His Retirement at 40

Speaking on the bold claims made, the Tidal League’s host said that these athletes are being tested in the lab. They are being made to perform a routine repeatedly until the desired result is obtained. The host also went on to term these athletes as a “case study”. So what do you think? Are the Enhanced Games the future of sports? Let us know in the comments below. 

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