American sprinter Fred Kerley is a man uncertain about his future heading into an action packed season.
American sprint sensation Fred Kerley, commenced his 2025 season with a narrow victory at the USC Trojan Invitational on March 22.
He edged out New Zealand’s Eddie Nketia by a mere 0.03 seconds, clocking times of 10.23 and 10.26 seconds, respectively.
This close finish underscores the intensifying competition Kerley faces as he strives to maintain his elite status.
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Kerley finished third at the 2024 Paris Olympics, behind fellow American sprinter Noah Lyles and Jamaica’s Kishane Thompson.
His performance at the Diamond League Final in Brussels in September 2024 which was his final action of the year saw him finish third in the 100 meters with a time of 10.1 seconds, and fifth in the 200 meters, missing the podium.
Complicating matters, as per Essentially Sports, Kerley has been without a major footwear sponsor since June 2024.
The termination of Kerley’s contract with ASICS followed his appearance at the New York City Grand Prix wearing Puma spikes, breaching his sponsorship agreement.
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Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy still has hopes of clinching a World Cup place despite a draw away to the Gambia as he looks to freshen up the team for Gabon on Sunday.
Despite this setback, he has continued to compete, occasionally seen wearing Puma spikes, though no formal partnership has been announced.
In the absence of a footwear sponsor, Kerley has maintained his association with eyewear brand Oakley.
He secured a deal with Oakley in 2023 and has been seen wearing their Encoder Strike Vented and Heliostat glasses during competitions.
As the 2025 season unfolds, Kerley’s resilience and adaptability will be crucial.
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Ian Otieno explains what to expect from Benni McCarthy as Harambee Stars welcome Gabon in the 2026 World Cup qualifier clash.
The emergence of competitors like Nketia and the lack of a major footwear sponsor present significant challenges.
His ability to navigate these obstacles will determine his trajectory in the highly competitive world of track and field.
