Kishane Thompson expects ‘fireworks’ in next clash with Noah Lyles
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South Africa's Akani Simbine and Jamaica's Kishane Thompson compete in men's 100m during the Shanghai/Keqiao Diamond League meet.
PHOTO: AFP
EUGENE – Jamaican Kishane Thompson is looking forward to “fireworks” when he next faces Noah Lyles of the United States in a rematch of the 2024 Paris Olympics 100m final – whenever that showdown materialises.
Lyles edged out Thompson by just 0.005sec in the 100m final in the French capital 11 months ago and they have not faced each other since then.
Thompson, in red-hot form ahead of the Eugene Diamond League meet on July 5 – in which Lyles is not entered – said he is “most definitely” eager to take on the American again.
“I’m a very competitive person,” Thompson said.
“I might not show it, but when it comes to competing with a phenomenal person, I think he’s a phenomenal athlete, great rival. So, yeah, of course, when he’s ready to step back on the track and we meet, it’s going to be fireworks, for sure.”
It remains to be seen whether they will meet before the World Championships, which will be held in Tokyo from Sept 13 to 21.
Lyles has yet to race a 100m or 200m this season, but 23-year-old Thompson is riding high after winning the 100m at the Jamaican national athletics trials in a blistering 9.75sec on June 27.
“I’m really grateful for that race,” he added. “So far, we’re just working on the execution, bit by bit trying to put everything together.
“For early season, it’s just trying to find that sweet spot, how it feels to compete at a high level, while doing the best execution out there as possible. Also getting that competition vibe going and just enjoying myself.
“Anything is possible, but I won’t jinx it... I just got to come out there, execute, do my best, you know, enjoy myself.”
Thompson’s career-best time made him the sixth-fastest performer in history. Only Justin Gatlin (9.74sec), Asafa Powell (9.72), Yohan Blake (9.69) Tyson Gay (9.69) and world record-holder Usain Bolt (9.58) have gone faster.
“I think I’m aware subconsciously,” he said of climbing a list topped by sprinters he calls “the gods of their time”.
“But I don’t let it overshadow anything that I’ve got to think about.” AFP
