Despite Volatility, Justin Gatlin Remains Focused On Usain Bolt

Published by The National on May 27, 2015

Within a matter of days this month, Justin Gatlin had an Olympic relay silver medal stripped, shattered his personal-best mark in the 100 metres and missed a meet in Beijing over a misunderstanding.

His reaction to each was rather straightforward: He’ll chase after more medals. 

No real time for ruminating, as Gatlin’s focus is strictly on closing the gap with Usain Bolt, who’s getting stronger – and healthier – by the day with the Beijing world championships just three months away.

“My job is to push him to be one of the greatest sprinters – and go out and beat him,” said the 33-year-old Gatlin, who will race in the 200m at the Prefontaine Classic this weekend in Eugene, Oregon. “It’s always been like that.”