Just when everybody thought Kenny would always be the silver medallist, he became Kenny the King.
In one of the most relaxed races of his career, the American sprinter delivered when it mattered most. Bednarek defeated the world champion to win the men’s 100m title at the World Athletics Ultimate Championship Budapest 26 on Saturday.
He clocked 9.85 seconds to become the Ultimate Championship’s fastest man.
Bednarek Masters the Art of Relaxation
Bednarek showcased one of the biggest keys to sprinting: staying relaxed while increasing speed.
Watching the American master that art was none other than Usain Bolt. Olympic champion Noah Lyles also enjoyed Bednarek’s victory.
“Everything is a little bit more exciting than at the World Championships, but also this event brought a bit more pressure on me as there is a lot on the line,” Bednarek said after the race.
Jamaica’s world champion Oblique Seville entered the final as the slight favourite after winning his semifinal in 9.90.
Bednarek had won his semifinal in 9.94.
Seville Leads, But Bednarek Finishes Strong
Seville made the stronger start in the final and moved past early leader Christian Coleman midway through the race.
Then Bednarek began to close the gap.
The American’s trademark 200m strength became decisive in the second half. He moved alongside Seville before powering ahead towards the finish.
As Seville approached the line, his technique began to falter as he pushed for the finish.
Bednarek, by contrast, remained completely composed.
He even raised his arm in celebration as he crossed the line.
Seville finished second in 9.90.
“I wanted to run faster, but Kenny got the best out of this race,” Seville admitted.
Baker Takes Third in Tight Finish
Behind the leading pair, the battle for third went down to the wire.
USA’s Ronnie Baker secured bronze in 9.93.
Nigeria’s Kayinsola Akayi finished just 0.004 seconds behind him.
Christian Coleman took fifth in 9.94.
Bednarek Finally Becomes the Champion
For years, Bednarek has collected major silver medals.
He finished runner-up in two Olympic 200m finals and two world 200m finals.
In Budapest, however, he finally moved to the top of a global podium as an individual champion.
And he is not finished yet.
Bednarek will return on Sunday with the chance to complete a double title in the 200m.
“I will get my sleep in and go back to work tomorrow,” Bednarek said. “I want to win a double title and make people happy.”