'I'm just as capable of winning'- Christian Coleman reacts after beating Fred Kerley in Xiamen

©Imago

'I'm just as capable of winning'- Christian Coleman reacts after beating Fred Kerley in Xiamen

Festus Chuma 20:46 - 20.04.2024

Christian Coleman overcame a slow start to defeat Fred Kerley in the 100m at the Xiamen Diamond League

Christian Coleman has reacted after getting the better of fellow former world champion Fred Kerley in the men's 100m at the Xiamen Diamond League meet on Saturday.

The clash between the two sprinting powerhouses was a highlight of the meet drawing significant attention from fans and commentators alike.

In a race that did not quite start as expected, Coleman found himself trailing behind 2022 world champion Kerley during the initial 30 meters.

However, Coleman’s performance picked up momentum mid-race, allowing him to overtake Kerley and secure a win with a time of 10.13 seconds.

"Yeah, I think that's why I was able to win. And so I feel like, I don't know, I'm grateful. I feel like that was the race that I needed. Maybe not the race that I exactly wanted to start the season," Coleman said. 

The World Indoor 60m champion expressed a mixed sense of gratitude and acknowledgment that while the race was not ideal, it was necessary.

 "But I think it's the one that I needed because it just goes to show that I'm just as capable of winning whatever type of race happens on that day. As long as I just stay focused on what I know I can do well," he noted.

Coleman's strategy focused on maintaining composure and sticking to his strengths, a tactic that ultimately paid off.

 "It's not always going to be perfect. But if you're able to focus on winning and just focus on your two lines and stay composed. I think I've shown that I'm capable of beating anybody in the world. And so I feel good about the race, honestly," he concluded. 

This victory was particularly significant for Coleman, who is still shaping his form as he aims for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Fred Kerley was close on Coleman's heels and finished the race just a fraction behind at 10.17 seconds. 

Meanwhile, Jamaica’s Ackeem Blake clinched the third spot with a time of 10.20 seconds, showcasing the high caliber of competition at the event.

The race also saw other notable athletes, including the 2011 world champion Yohan Blake, who finished in ninth place, highlighting the intense level of competition. 

Just two weeks ago Coleman faced a setback when he was beaten over 200m by Kenny Bednarek in Florida but his recent performance in Xiamen has reignited his confidence.

Follow us on X (Twitter) for updates.

Tags: