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Bednarek has been on hot form of late and set a world lead of 19.67 at the 200m of the Doha Diamond League classic, something that is getting Gatlin very excited.
American sprint icon Justin Gatlin has revealed the qualities that could make Kenny Bednarek a formidable contender as the Olympic Games in Paris this August draw nearer.
Bednarek has been in sensational form this season, recently running an impressive 19.67 seconds to secure the world lead in the 200 meters at the Doha Diamond League.
Bednarek’s stellar season also includes being part of the US team that clinched gold in the 4x100 meters relay at the World Relays in the Bahamas and winning the 100 meters at the Absa Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi, Kenya, back in April.
The 200-meter division has garnered significant attention this season due to speculations about potential world record-breaking performances. However, only a select few will earn a spot in Paris.
The USATF has a wealth of talent to choose from, including Fred Kerley, Christian Coleman, and Erriyon Knighton, all of whom will be evaluated by officials in upcoming track events. The selectors face a challenging task in deciding who will represent Team USA in the quest for Olympic gold.
In the lead-up to the Olympic Games, Bednarek will face numerous competitive challenges. So far, he has excelled in various competitions, whether in the 100 or 200 meters.
He will compete against fellow Team USA athletes in upcoming heats, with the track community eagerly anticipating the results.
Gatlin recently shared his insights on Bednarek's unique qualities that make him a standout athlete. Speaking on his Ready-Set-Go podcast, Gatlin expressed his admiration for Bednarek's determination and focus.
“Kenny is such a quiet warrior, that is what I love about him. He will tell you straight up ‘I want to be the best, I want to win the gold,’” Gatlin said. “But he is not going to be out there and be crazy and talk all kinds of crap. He just focuses on his craft, does his thing.”
Gatlin acknowledged that it took Bednarek some time to acclimate to the sport at an elite level but praised his recent performances. “It took him a while to acclimate to the sport at an elite level but now, he opened up at one of my favorite meets, Doha, where I opened up and had my PB of 9.74,” Gatlin said.
“To do what he did in such a grand fashion, you have to give it up to him. He is definitely on a roll for the 200, and I want to see what he is going to do for the 100,” he continued. “If he is out there 19.67, technically opening up in a Diamond League race, I want to see what he can do.”
As Bednarek prepares for the challenges ahead, his quiet determination and focus on his craft make him a force to be reckoned with. The track community and fans alike will be watching closely to see how he performs in the upcoming events, leading up to what promises to be a thrilling Olympic Games in Paris.
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