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Another day another missed record in the 2oom race by one-tenth seconds. With the new generation of sprinting icons speeding toward the finish line, the quest for titles is more competitive than ever. While the King of Sprint, Usain Bolt, remains at the top his records often tease the athletes who fall short of breaking them. Fans are now biting their nails in suspense over the men’s races as they choose their athletes in the hopes of a thrilling victory.
The sport has grown quite intriguing as freshman sprinters smash historic records each year. With a decreasing clocking time and an ambiguous end, each athlete now has their eyes set on the finish line. As sprinters put their best foot forward, their eagle-eyed fans keep tabs on each missed stint. Recently at the World Championships, a full turn of the race placing shocked the track and field community while some showed concerns.
One of the most competitive races in track and field history
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On Saturday(June 9), 6 ft 3 teen athlete Erriyon Knighton won two titles in the 2023 U.S. Championships in men’s 20om. With a lightning speed of 19.72s, he won the race while also smashing the U20 world record. While the 400, 200, and 100m star Fred Kerley finished fourth clocking 19.86s. Commenting on Kerley’s finish, US Olympic legend Michael Johnson took it to Twitter and wrote-
Rarely seen anyone look so uncomfortable on the curve as Fred. Extreme forward lean makes it difficult to generate curve speed. Different from straight speed. Something physiological is holding him back. If he ever solves it he’d be challenging for gold. pic.twitter.com/4ezKJAFdPl
— Michael Johnson (@MJGold) July 10, 2023
Though one cannot overlook the tough competition and exceptional win, the position was a bit upsetting for his fans as well. While Olympic silver medallist Kenny Bednarek came in second with a time of 19.82s, followed by Courtney Lindsey, who set personal records in the 100 and 200 meters this year, at 19.85. Kerley finished 0.1 seconds behind Lindsey.
Kerley is not the only former champion who came up short, earlier this week, Christian Coleman won the 100-meter race and finished sixth in the 200-meter race. Contrary to the winner Knighton’s performance from winning a bronze medal in the World 200m last year. The race stats are speeding up, and fans are worried about Kerley’s tally, speculating concerns over his well-being.
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All eyes on track and field’s reigning 100m sprinter
While some naysayers were quick to rule out 200m as Kerley’s kryptonite, his supporters are worried as he returns after sustaining injury. Taking a four-week-long break from the track, missing the 2023 USATF Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon. In an interview this year he was also seen doubting his silver wins as he said, “For sure I am tired” talking about finishing second in a row. And this statement comes despite a direct qualification for the World Athletics Championships.
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The athlete electrified the crowd by running a breathtaking 9.86 seconds in the 100-meter sprint at the 2022 World Athletics Championships. Since then, he has carried the weight of the expectation that he will smash Usain Bolt’s 100-meter record. Fans of the all-round sprinter continue to support him despite his records being from the legend’s second-best. Indeed, his status as a prominent athlete in sprinting history is maintained by his success as a 2X world champion, silver medalist from the Olympics, and two-time Diamond League champion.
Watch this story Most Decorated Olympic Athlete Who Broke Usain Bolt’s Record Goes Down Memory Lane of Her Glorious Career