Fastest man on the planet stays modest after defending 100m title in record 9.63secs ahead of compatriot Blake
Usain Bolt refuses to believe he has achieved the legendary status he craves despite proving the doubters wrong to retain his Olympic 100m title in London.
Bolt set an Olympic record of 9.63 seconds, the second fastest time in history behind his own world record of 9.58secs, to leave reigning world champion and training partner Yohan Blake to take silver in 9.75s and 2004 champion Justin Gatlin the bronze in 9.79.
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“This gold means I am one step closer to being a legend so I’m working toward that,” Bolt said. Asked if it was sweeter for coming as Jamaica celebrates the 50th anniversary of its independence, the 25-year-old said: “The reason it’s sweeter is because a lot of guys doubted me so I had to show the world I am the greatest.”
Those doubts surfaced after Bolt lost twice to Blake at the Olympic trials and subsequently underwent treatment for a stiff back which was causing hamstring problems.
“It means a lot because there were a lot of people doubting me, it was great to come out and show I am still number one, I am still the best,” added Bolt.
“People can talk, all they can do is talk. I tell you people that when it comes to the championships it’s all about business to me and I brought it.
“The trials woke me up. Yohan gave me a wake-up call. He knocked on my door and said ‘Usain, this is an Olympic year, wake up’, so I am grateful for that moment because after that I got my head together, got my head in the game.”
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