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The US sprint legend feels the British runner is headed for greatness due to a number of factors even after failing to live up to expectations at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
American sprint legend Michael Johnson has expressed his admiration over the mental strength of British sprinter Zharnel Hughes.
Hughes has had some ups and downs in his career but showed great promise in 2023 when he won a bronze medal in 100m and finished fourth in a personal best 20.02 seconds at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.
The 29-year-old, however, experienced a difficult Olympics in 2024 when he was eliminated at the semi-final of the 100m although he won bronze in 4x400m relay with Team GB.
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18:00 - 20.12.2024
'Athletes have complained about...'- Michael Johnson stays focused on Grand Slam Track's goals amid criticism
Michael Johnson has remained focused on the Grand Slam Track League's goal amid criticism from Olympic champion Tara Davis-Woodhall and husband Hunter Woodhall.
However, he remains determined to right those wrongs and become one of the greats, starting in 2025 where he will feature in Johnson’s-led Grand Slam Track as well as the World Championships in Tokyo, Japan.
“I'm driven by the desire to be the best, to inspire others, and to leave a lasting legacy. The future of our sport is bright,” Hughes said after signing up for Grand Slam Track.
It is determination that has thrilled Johnson as the former 400m world record holder believes such a mentality is what will make Hughes one of the greats.
“@zharnel_hughes first showed huge potential, then had some big moment failures. Many would’ve spiralled. But he figured it out and unlocked his potential in 2023 with 100m bronze, and 100 and 200 PBs and NRs. When athletes figure out how to overcome setbacks, watch out,” Johnson posted on X.
The four-time European champion has experienced some low moments since bursting onto the global scene at the 2015 World Championships where he finished fifth in 200m before a semi-final exit over the distance in 2019 as well as the same result in 100m at the 2022 World Championships.
This was after being disqualified from the 100m and 4x400m relay at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics but he bounced back last year to claim bronze.
Heading into 2025, there are hopes that Hughes will be among the athletes to beat after coming into 2024 with a huge reputation but failing to live up to the expectations.
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