Tebogo sailed to victory by setting a personal best time of 9.87 seconds, describing the race as 'one of his best', but he still has a big regret.
Letsile Tebogo showcased his exceptional sprinting prowess at the Diamond League Meeting in Rome, where he claimed victory in the men’s 100m with a personal best time of 9.87 seconds.
The young Botswanan sprinter outpaced formidable opponents, including Christian Coleman and Fred Kerley, who finished in second and third with times of 9.92 and 9.95 seconds, respectively.
Tebogo's triumph in Rome followed a stellar performance season, but even as he stood victorious, the 20-year-old couldn’t help but reflect on what could have been.
00:03 - 31.08.2024
Letsile Tebogo claims dominant victory in Rome as Ferdinand Omanyala misses podium place
Letsile Tebogo continued his winning streak with a dominant victory in the men's 100m at the Diamond League Meeting in Rome, shocking Christian Coleman, Fred Kerley, Ferdinand Omanyala and Co.
Despite his outstanding run, Tebogo admitted to a significant regret—his start at the Paris Olympics.
“This was one of my best 100-meter races. Before this, I imagined what the perfect race over 100 would look like,” Tebogo said.
“You have to lock it into your mind, and then it can happen. Today I had a great start, and it made me think, ‘Why did I not have one like this in the Olympic final?’”
In Paris, Tebogo finished a disappointing sixth in the men’s 100m final but rebounded by capturing the 200m title.
20:22 - 29.08.2024
Justin Gatlin explains what makes Letsile Tebogo an excellent 400m runner
The 2004 Olympic gold medallist pointed out the qualities that make Letsile Tebogo a great 400m runner.
His performance in Rome was yet another testament to his growing dominance, especially after winning the 200m at the Diamond League Meeting in Lausanne and continuing his winning streak in Silesia.
“I actually did not plan to set a PB today,” Tebogo admitted. “I remember how my body felt after the last time I ran a 9.8. It was hard to come back from that to run the 200 the next day in Paris. I still have more races coming up, and I did not want to get injured before Zurich.”
Tebogo’s reflections also extended beyond his individual achievements, as he emphasized the importance of camaraderie among sprinters.
“I believe in having strong bonds with other sprinters. We compete against each other, but we all do the same thing, and we should stick together,” he added.
20:00 - 30.08.2024
'They looked like they are on a Maybelline commercial!' - Justin Gatlin on the physical appeal of athletes at Paris Olympics
Justin Gatlin has opined why he thinks track and field is the sport with the most physically attractive athletes in the world.
While his performance in Rome was a clear indicator of his remarkable form, Tebogo’s thoughts remained tethered to the missed opportunity at the Olympics.
As he continues his journey through the Diamond League circuit, the young sprinter will undoubtedly carry both his triumphs and regrets, driving him to even greater heights.