Justin Gatlin and Asafa Powell shared the stage in a famed rivalry for the better part of a decade in the 2000s.
American track legend Justin Gatlin has expressed his admiration for his former track rival, Jamaican sprinting icon Asafa Powell.
The two athletes dominated the sprinting scene for a better part of the 2000s, playing a pivotal role in the fierce American-Jamaican track rivalry that captivated fans worldwide.
Their rivalry was characterized by a series of record-breaking performances that pushed the boundaries of sprinting excellence.
Justin Gatlin has hilariously recounted the 2004 Olympic Games, revealing his two greatest rivals at the time.
Their back-and-forth battle of claiming the owlrd record in the 100m not only highlighted their extraordinary talents but also cemented their status as two of the greatest sprinters of their era.
Years after their storied rivalry, both sprinters have since retired. Recently, Powell took to social media to reminisce about one of his proudest moments—being crowned the 2006 Athlete of the Year.
That season, Powell dominated the 100m sprint, equaling his own world record of 9.77 seconds multiple times.
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American sprint icon Justin Gatlin has urged retired Jamaican Olympian Asafa Powell to complete a hitoric career milestone.
“Was this really 19 years ago?” Powell wrote, reflecting on his remarkable campaign.
Gatlin, acknowledging his longtime competitor’s achievements, responded with a simple yet powerful comment, writing, “Legendary.”
Despite their intense competition on the track, Gatlin and Powell have developed a strong friendship post-retirement.
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Justin Gatlin, who beat his old rival Usain Bolt in the final of the 100 meters at 2017 World Athletics Championships from an unconvetional lane eight, has explained why winning the event is not limited to starting positions.
They have appeared on each other’s podcasts, sharing candid discussions about their careers and mutual respect.
Their bond was further evident in 2024 when Gatlin traveled to Jamaica to celebrate Powell’s birthday, underscoring the deep camaraderie they now share.
From fierce rivals to close friends, Gatlin and Powell’s journey exemplifies the evolution of sportsmanship.
