“Doesn’t Have to Kill Himself Every Week”- US Legend Urges Erriyon Knighton to Not Chase World Records at 18

The kind of hype that Erriyon Knighton is getting is off the charts. He is just 18 years old and is one of the best athletes in the world. Recently, he set the fourth-fastest time in the world in the 200-meters competition. Hence, fans are projecting him to realize his potential and be the rightful heir to Usain Bolt’s throne. But, former legendary athlete Carl Lewis gave some advice that can help young talent in the future.

Lewis is a legend of the track and field competition, winning the long jump in four consecutive Olympic Games. Ever since he was young, he dominated the track and field competitions. But, his latest advice can help him in the future.

Will Erriyon Knighton crumble under pressure?

The sensational Knighton is one of the best young sprinters in the world right now. He recently took part in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, finished fourth, and gained valuable big-race experience. As of right now, he has a personal best time of 10.04 seconds in the 100-meters. Hence, with all that is happening right now, Lewis explained the problems related to unnecessary pressure on a young athlete.

“Well, you have to be careful as a high schooler because now all of a sudden, instead of running five hard races a year, you’re running every hard race a year. That’s where I think people lose their perspective. It’s not that you’re not good and I think he can’t be great, he’s a phenomenal athlete but you still have to take your time because you’re still 18 or 19 years old. That’s the important thing,” said Lewis.

READ MORE- When Did 18-Year-Old Erriyon Knighton Start His Track Journey?

He compared his situation to the athletes in the NFL. The transition from being a top-level high school player to a world-class NFL superstar is huge, as there are physically imposing athletes in the league. This sudden influx of physicality may be a huge difference. It is the same with track and field. Thus, Lewis offered golden advice to the young chap.

Slow down!

Getting down the age category is an option for the young athlete. Still 18, Knighton has a long way to go as Lewis spoke about the importance of slowing down the process.

“So I hope he doesn’t run too much in big races. He should be able to run some age group races if he can’t or not age group but high school or college races where it’s more competitive where he doesn’t have to kill himself every week. Because you are physically not as strong at 18 or 19 as you will be at 21, 22.”

With love from Carl Lewis, it is arguably the perfect advice for the wunderkind. He is one of the best talents in the world, and adding unnecessary pressure can lead to undesirable consequences. A national treasure, Knighton is aiming for the stars, aiming to reach the level of Usain Bolt like everyone, but not quite yet!

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