Despite backing himself to take gold at the World Championships in Daegu, world leader in the 100m event Asafa Powell remains wary of World and Olympic champion Usain Bolt.
Bolt, despite holding the record over the distance, has looked in sluggish form so far this season, clocking a personal best of 9.91 at the Diamond League in Rome, where he beat Powell, before equalling the time in Ostrava. In the meantime, it is Powell who has grabbed the headlines, especially having blasted to a world-leading 9.78 in Lausanne two weeks ago.
However, while his excellent physical conditioning and strong times so far this season have boosted his confidence, he is quick not to underestimate his compatriot, who he believes can pick things up at any time.
“I have the fastest time for the season and I think a lot of people would say I’m the favourite,” Powell told Sportingalert.com following another strong showing last weekend at the Aviva meet in Birmingham, where he cruised to 9.91 to equal Bolt’s best.
“But everyone knows that Bolt is the defending champion so I think a lot of people are looking for him as well.
“Bolt is the biggest threat. He can just pop out at any time and run fast.”
However, Powell could also be aided by the fact that American rival Tyson Gay, another strong favourite for a medal, will be out of contention for the World Championships, having pulled out of the American trials with a hip injury.
