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Knighton saw the provisional doping ban imposed on him by USADA lifted, which allowed him to take part in the US Olympic trials, where he sealed qualification in the 200 meters.
Former American sprinter Justin Gatlin has praised Erryon Knighton for his impressive performance in the 200m final at the USATF Olympic qualifiers last weekend.
The young sprinter secured his spot for the Paris Olympics this August by finishing third with a time of 19.77 seconds, behind Noah Lyles and Kenny Bednarek.
Knighton’s journey to the qualifiers was fraught with challenges. He tested positive for a metabolite of trenbolone during an out-of-competition drug test, leading to a provisional suspension on April 12 by the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).
However, an independent arbitrator concluded that the substance likely entered his system through contaminated meat, lifting his suspension and allowing him to compete at the trials.
Reflecting on his ordeal, Knighton maintained his innocence and expressed confidence in his eventual return to competition.
“In my heart, I knew I never did anything wrong and I have always been a good athlete. I’m a clean athlete and I knew I was going to be able to run. Really nothing in particular…I know I never did anything wrong,” Knighton said.
Justin Gatlin, who himself experienced similar issues during his sprinting career, serving a four-year ban from 2006 to 2010 after testing positive for testosterone, discussed Knighton’s situation on his Ready Set Go podcast. Gatlin highlighted Knighton’s mental fortitude and focus amidst the controversy.
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“Erryon Knighton has not run all year outdoors. For him to show up especially after all the situation he went through and he was cleared, it still weighs heavy on him,” Gatlin remarked.
“He said in the interview afterwards that he was a person of integrity and that it was something he would never do, but it still weighs heavy on you. For him to go out there and show the focus that he did, that shows the poise he has.”
Gatlin believes Knighton’s potential is immense, particularly given that the young sprinter was unable to start his outdoor season until the trials due to the suspension.
“To run 19.77 with that being his third race of the season this late, yeah. Let us wait three or four weeks to see what he can do. It will be something nice,” Gatlin added.
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Knighton’s resilience and performance have set high expectations for his future, as he prepares to represent the United States at the Paris Olympics.
His journey serves as a testament to his integrity and determination, qualities that will undoubtedly contribute to his success on the global stage.
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