Beijing 201t: Bolt, Gatlin Set Up 200m Final Showdown

Usain Bolt won an unprecedented fourth straight 200m and 10th World Championships gold medal as he washed away the field in Beijing. Waiting for him in the final will be America’s Justin Gatlin, who was also impressive in his progression, posting a time of 19.87 seconds to assure he qualified easily. “I feel confident”, said Gatlin, who has shown signs of irritation at his portrayal as the pantomime villain of athletics since arriving in China.

Brendan Foster has rejected claims of “bias” against Justin Gatlin as the twice-banned American prepared himself for a second showdown with Usain Bolt at the World Athletics Championships here, writes Alex Spink in Beijing.

 “I just have to recover now and get ready”. Having been the favorite heading into the 100m final, Gatlin failed to produce his best as Bolt again delivered on the big stage, applying pressure that left his rival mistiming his lunge toward the line.

Decorated Jamaican Veronica Campbell-Brown, the former Olympic and world title-holder, could enjoy a golden swansong, although countrywoman Elaine Thompson, Nigeria’s Commonwealth Games champion Blessing Okagbare and Dutch 100m silver medallist Dafne Schippers could also shine. “I don’t blame anyone”, said Farah, who had a little cut on his leg but was fine otherwise.

“I’m more professional with 200 meters”, Bolt said. Other finals on Wednesday include the women’s pole vault, 400m hurdles and 3,000m steeplechase, as well as the men’s javelin. “I’m just taking my time, not trying to push myself too hard”.