Why American track legend is backing Fred Kerley as he eyes dominant 2025 season against Noah Lyles, Kishane Thompson & Co

100m Olympic bronze medalist Fred Kerley

Why American track legend is backing Fred Kerley as he eyes dominant 2025 season against Noah Lyles, Kishane Thompson & Co

Stephen Awino 14:25 - 04.12.2024

American track legend Michael Johnson has agreed with Fred Kerley's self assessment ahead of an action packed 2025 season.

American sprinting legend Michael Johnson has voiced his support for Fred Kerley, agreeing with the Olympics 100m bronze medalist’s bold assessment of his place among the elite sprinters in the world.

As Kerley gears up for an electrifying 2025 season, his confidence is clear, having sent a cryptic yet self-assured message on his X account, positioning himself as a top contender.

Johnson echoed Kerley’s sentiments, calling him the "realist one," a nod to his determination and authenticity.

Kerley’s bronze medal performance in the men’s 100m final at the Paris 2024 Olympics was a remarkable rebound after what many had labeled a challenging season.

Crossing the line in 9.81 seconds, Kerley narrowly missed out on the top two spots, with Jamaica’s Kishane Thompson and fellow American Noah Lyles both clocking 9.79. Lyles claimed the gold by mere milliseconds in a dramatic finish.

The result has reignited Kerley’s drive, with the sprinter putting rivals like Lyles, Thompson, and others on notice as he targets a return to dominance in 2025.

The Tokyo World Athletics Championships, a key highlight of the season, will provide Kerley the opportunity to reclaim his status as one of the fastest men on the planet.

Kerley is additionally already poised for showdown in Johnson's inaugural Grand Slam Track in 2025.

With the likes of Lyles and Thompson continuing to raise the bar, as well as emerging talents in the sprinting world, Kerley knows the road to supremacy will be fiercely competitive.

Kerley’s blend of confidence, experience, and determination could make him one of the most formidable athletes on the track in 2025.