The recent doping scandals involving Tyson Gay and Asafa Powell have put a damper on the championships, one that Bolt can discredit with a peak performance. Bolt has consistently tested negative for banned substances.
Bolt’s teammate, Yohan Blake, who is the defending world champion in the 100-meter had to withdraw from the world championships after a hamstring injury sidelined him for most of this season.
Bolt’s most formidable challenger in the championship 100-meter may be American Justin Gatlin. Gatlin, who also has a history of doping, received the bronze medal in the 100-meter race at last year’s Olympic Games.
The American sprinter anticipated a star-studded event and appeared surprised by the lack of sprinters in the 100-meter this year.
“‘After the 2012 Olympics, I was telling people who weren’t into track and field, ‘Hold onto your popcorn because next year is going to be even more exciting. We’re going to have the same people,’ Gatlin said. ‘Never in a million years would I think it would end up like this. I still think it’s going to be exciting.'”
The Track and Field World Championships are from Aug. 10 to Aug. 18. Usain Bolt will be running the 100- and 200 meter races and the 4 x 100-meter relay.
