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Fans have been dubbing Kishane Thompson 'Asafa Powell 2.0' since his heroic 100m Jamaican Olympic trials, but Gatlin has given two reasons why the runners are very different.
Former American sprinter Justin Gatlin has shared his thoughts on the burgeoning discussion comparing Kishane Thompson to former world record holder Asafa Powell.
The 22-year-old Thompson delivered an extraordinary performance at the Jamaican Olympic Trials last weekend, clocking an impressive 9.77 seconds in the 100m.
This remarkable feat, achieved in just his second season as a professional, positions Thompson as the fourth-fastest runner in Jamaica's history.
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11:17 - 30.06.2024
I wasn't even trying — Jamaican star Kishane Thompson after becoming 9th-fastest man ever - with bizarre instructions from his coach
Kishane Thompson was the star of the show in the Jamaican Olympic Trails thanks to instructions from his coach.
Thompson's calm and collected demeanor was evident during his race, where he admitted to running at full speed for only the first 60 meters before easing up, yet still winning comfortably.
This effortless style draws parallels to Powell, who twice held the world record and was known for his seemingly easy runs. Powell's initial world record in 2005 notably showed him slowing down just before the finish.
Despite the similarities, Gatlin believes that Thompson and Powell are distinct in their running styles.
"You hear people saying he is the Asafa 2.0, but I think Kishane is his own person. First of all, Asafa has got more running style. I am not saying Kishane has not got good form, but it is not alike," Gatlin remarked.
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20:30 - 04.07.2024
Kishane Thomspon opens up on adversities he had to overcome before stunning at Jamaican Olympic trials
Kishane Thompson has revealed on the struggles he had to overcome before taking the World by suprise in the 100m of the Jamaican Olympic trials
Gatlin emphasized Thompson’s unique approach to sprinting, stating, "I think Kishane has a whole different swagger. He is his own person," highlighting the young sprinter's individuality on the track.
As the Olympic Games draw nearer, the competition among these world-class sprinters promises to be intense. Thompson's rapid rise has undoubtedly added motivation for Noah Lyles, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown in Paris.
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