The 3x Scottish record holder and 2x British champion is vying for the most sought-after 1500m title at the Paris Olympics 2024. Starting his career with the 2013 European Under-20 win, Jake Wightman has never fallen short of adroitness on the track. Moreover, the 2022 World Athletics Championship gold medal etched his name in the history book.

But the following year was dispiriting for the 29-year-old. Missing out on meets in the wake of a foot injury wasn’t an option to Wightman, who has only one shot in the Olympics left. So, ushering in 2024 was all about replanting the Olympic seed in the heart.

Jake Wightman wants to make it count this time at the Olympics

As caught by the iconic Metro, the 29-year-old shared his plans. “It was probably the worst year I’ve had but I believe a better one is around the corner”, said he who has been on a healing journey since he got hit by an unforeseen foot injury. One year might not go according to the plan and there’s no harm in it. In retrospect, Wightman said, “For the first time, I had more time as Jake the person, rather than the athlete”. 

According to his aforementioned statement, the healing journey has been a learning experience for him altogether. If he sets a standard at this Olympics, half of his suspended dreams would come to fruition. Said, “I’d be able to move on happy”. He lost his chance of making the 2016 Rio Olympics by a fraction and completed 10th in Tokyo. In simple terms, he hasn’t had a satisfactory Olympic experience yet. So, to cement his position as an Olympian, Wightman has set his goals right.

Missing out on the 2023 Worlds was especially disheartening

In February 2023, during training, Whitman met with a foot injury, resulting in a consistent absence from further events. But missing out on the Worlds where he clinched the gold the previous year came as a heavy blow. “I’m sadly going to be unable to compete at Worlds which has been really gutting to come to terms with”, said he.

READ MORE: New Balance Indoor Prix: Olympic Star Jake Wightman Reveals the Status of His 12 Month Injury Ahead Of Season Opener

But seeing his comrade Josh Kerr walking home with the 1500m win felt like a cool breeze. While speaking about Kerr, he said, “At the end of the day, you want to beat each other on the track but you can still be friends… Appreciate what each other’s doing off the track”. As per his statement, brotherhood beyond track is a thing, that Britishers never forget.

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