If Michael Johnson was still running or if Usain Bolt was on the scene in the 90s, who would be the more dominant of the two sprinters?
Johnson ran a then world record 19.32 to take Olympic gold in 1996, which was lowered to 19.30 by Bolt to win at the Beijing edition of 2008 and further bettered to the current mark of 19.19 at the 2009 Berlin Worlds. Bolt then lowered the record in 2009 to 19.19secs
The American, who was speaking on Wednesday’s Today as part of their Where Are They Now series, leading up to the summer Olympics in Rio, believes he would beat Bolt every day.
“I win every day. Every time we line up, I win. Guaranteed,” said Johnson with a big smile when asked, if given the chance to turn back the clock, who would win in a race between himself and Bolt.
Johnson still holds the men’s 400m world record of 43.18 while Bolt is also the 100m record holder at 9.58.
Anthony Foster
Anthony Foster is a renowned Jamaican sports journalist, honored twice as the Jamaica sports journalist of the year (in 2004 and 2005). His journalistic achievements are globally recognized. Notably, he authored an award-winning article on Usain Bolt, the iconic 6-time Olympic champion, 11-time World champion, and record holder for the sprint double. This significant piece was published in the Jamaica Gleaner in 2004.
Anthony's extensive coverage includes prestigious events such as the Olympic Games in Beijing 2008, London 2012, and Rio 2016. He has also provided coverage for seven (7) World Athletics Championships held between 2007 and 2022, alongside various other international sporting events. Noteworthy mentions comprise his coverage of the 2007 World Cup of cricket and his cherished experience reporting on the 2004 clash between his favorite football team, Argentina, and the USA.
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“I win every day. Every time we line up, I win. Guaranteed,” said Johnson with a big smile when asked, if given the chance to turn back the clock, who would win in a race between himself and Bolt.
That comment alone goes to show it was all in fun. And even still Bailey was NOT the fastest man in the World at the time.
The headline is misleading. Michael Johnson was being facetious when he responds to a question that was being asked. His facial expression said it all. This is way journalist creates a stir when the water would have been stilled.
Oh no Hopeton, no tek the man too serious
Johnson had a chance to prove that he was the fastest man when he lined up against Donovan Bailey in the 150m and claimed a pull up instead of a a win. His country men boosted him in believing that he was faster than Bailey. It turned out that Bailey who is a born Jamaican was forever faster. Mr Anthony Foster do you not research these athletes history before you write these articles boosting these athletes seeking a come back on Media Track.He could not beat Donovan Bailey when he was in his prime.
#whowouldwin