In 2024, a Jamaican sprinter may enter the Paris Olympics as the world’s fastest man. Kishane Thompson, 22, secured his position by winning the 100m race at the Jamaican Olympic Trials with a time of 9.77 seconds, the fastest time in the world in two years. This victory marked Thompson’s first senior national championship final win, which took place in Kingston, Jamaica. He was closely followed by Oblique Seville, who finished in 9.82 seconds, and Ackeem Blake, who finished in 9.92 seconds, both running with a .9 meter per second tailwind.
Thompson’s main competition in the upcoming Paris Olympics is expected to be American sprinter Fred Kerley, who holds a personal best of 9.76 seconds. Despite facing some setbacks due to injuries in the past, Thompson has shown remarkable improvement in his performances, including running personal best times of 9.85 and 9.87 at Diamond League meets. His coach, Stephen Francis, expressed confidence in Thompson’s abilities and readiness for the Olympics. If successful, Thompson could become the first Jamaican man to win a 100m medal at a global championship since Usain Bolt’s final individual race in 2017.
In addition to Thompson’s success, the Jamaican women also performed well at the trials. Shericka Jackson, a two-time world 200m champion, won the women’s 100m race with a time of 10.84 seconds, followed by Tina Clayton in 10.90 seconds and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce in 10.94 seconds. These athletes are expected to represent Jamaica in the women’s 100m event at the Paris Olympics. However, reigning Olympic 100m champion Elaine Thompson-Herah had to withdraw from the trials due to injury and will not compete in the upcoming Games.