'I give thanks to God for his blessings' – Yohan Blake reflects on milestone birthday amid challenging year

'I give thanks to God for his blessings' – Yohan Blake reflects on milestone birthday amid challenging year

Festus Chuma 17:28 - 28.12.2024

World's second-fastest man Yohan Blake has celebrated his 35th birthday, reflecting on challenges, gratitude and global athlete support.

Jamaican sprint king Yohan Blake has expressed heartfelt gratitude as he celebrated his 35th birthday, marking the milestone with an outpouring of love and support from fellow athletes and fans.

The Olympic gold medalist and world-renowned sprinter shared his reflections on Instagram, acknowledging both the blessings and challenges he faced in a tumultuous 2024.

"I give thanks to God for His blessings and for allowing me to see this day. Thank you all for the birthday wishes. I’m grateful to celebrate another year surrounded by so much love and kindness," Blake wrote in a heartfelt message on social media.

His post captured the warmth of the occasion, even as it followed a season riddled with injuries and setbacks that saw him miss out on the Paris Olympics.

Blake’s 35th birthday was celebrated across the sporting world, with numerous athletes extending their wishes to the Jamaican star.

Legendary cricketer Chris Gayle shared a touching tribute on Instagram, writing, "More life and blessings @yohanblake," alongside a picture of the sprinter.

Fellow Jamaican sprinter Ackeem Blake also paid tribute, posting a picture with the veteran athlete accompanied by a festive GIF that read, "Happy Birthday."

The celebratory messages continued with USA Paralympic athlete Nick Mayhugh sharing his sentiments: "Happy birthday bro! @yohanblake God Bless🙏."

Jamaican shot putter Zara Northover also joined in, sharing a photo with Blake and writing, "🎉Happy Birthday🎉✨@yohanblake✨." The wave of goodwill underscored Blake's enduring influence in the world of athletics and beyond.

Despite the joyous occasion, Blake took time to reflect on the challenges he endured during 2024.

Injuries plagued his season, and he was unable to secure a spot at the Paris Olympics, a disappointing outcome for the sprinter known for his blistering speed and relentless work ethic.

His last race of the season at the London Diamond League was a sobering one, where he clocked 10.23 seconds in the 100m, finishing last.

"My head is all over the place right now because what I wanted to do at Jamaican Trials I didn't get to do. I did want to run my final Olympics. I didn't get to but the journey continues same way. Definitely it would be my final Olympics," Blake shared candidly following his race in London

The 35-year-old also opened up about feeling a lack of support from his fellow Jamaicans, despite his illustrious career and contributions to the sport.

"You know as I said, my own country Jamaica doesn't give me the respect and I'm happy they don't because other people outside do and they appreciate me more than my own country," Blake remarked.

Acknowledging the fierce competitiveness of Jamaican athletics, Blake added, “Jamaica loves winners and once you don't win they are not supporting you but I don't need their support. I have my own support staff, my own support team."

Blake, who earned the nickname "The Beast" from training partner and sprint legend Usain Bolt due to his relentless dedication, has remained resolute in his commitment to the sport.