Usain Bolt is one of the greatest sprinters the world has ever seen, and breaking world records and winning medals in major events has almost become a habit for the Jamaican. Bolt is set for his last Olympics this August in Rio, and the 29-year-old is expected to sign off in style. Sprinter Tyson Gay believes Bolt is on par with athletics legend Carl Lewis.
Lewis has won an incredible nine gold medals and one silver in the Olympics, while Bolt has won six medals in the quadrennial event so far. But, Bolt could also end his career with nine gold medals if he clinches first position in the 100m, 200m and 4x 100m relay in 2016 Rio Olympics. However, one has to note, Lewis participated in four events - 100m, 200m and relay and long jump.
"You know Carl has done some great things even though he's done more events and what not, but Olympics and world records, nobody else has done that besides Carl, so he (Bolt) is definitely top two," Gay was quoted as saying by the Jamaican Gleaner.
Bolt has his complete focus on the upcoming Olympics, which will witness a number of sprinters like Gay, Justin Gatlin and more, who will be keen to defeat the Jamaican in the 100m and 200m. Bolt has already sent warning signs to his rivals, suggesting that he will be gunning for a sub-19s in 200m. If it happens, Bolt will become the first time ever to do it. Bolt currently holds the world record in 100m (9.58s) and 200m (19.19s).
The fastest man on the planet won gold medals in the 100m and 200m events during the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Games respectively. Bolt will be keen to finish off with a hat-trick of gold medals in both the sprint events.
The Jamaican is one of the favourites to win gold in 100m and 200m in Rio, after his sensational performance in the World Championships in China last year. His triumph during the event was special, as the sprinter had missed a number of competitions early last year, but he still defeated all his rivals, including Justin Gatlin.
Gay, who is also preparing for the mega event in Rio, believes Bolt is one of the greatest competitors in the sport.
"The guy (Bolt) is a great competitor, great heart. Excuse my language ... the s*** he pulled off last year was amazing. Not having many races and to be able to perform at the World Championships was amazing. I didn't doubt him because I have seen him do amazing things. I was more like shocked that he pulled it out. It was amazing," Gay said.
