Rising Levell could shake World Champs 200m field

IT IS expected to be another blockbuster showdown in the men’s 200 metres, with the three medallists from last year’s Olympic Games set to clash once again.

Leading the charge is Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo, the gold medallist, alongside America’s Kenneth Bednarek, silver medallist, and bronze medallist and defending world champion, Noah Lyles.

But Jamaica’s Bryan Levell is aiming to crash the party and grab his first medal on the senior global stage. The 21-year-old has been in blistering form this season, clocking a personal best of 19.69 seconds in negative wind. That makes him the third-fastest man in the world this year, just behind Noah Lyles (19.63) and Bednarek (19.67).

Levell’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. Last year, he could do no better than ninth in his Olympic semifinal. This year, he has exploded into the top tier of sprinting, even ranking number two in the 100 metres with 9.82 seconds. Now, he has his eyes firmly on history – looking to become only the fourth Jamaican to medal in the 200m. Usain Bolt was the last, winning four straight titles up to Beijing 2015. Christopher Williams (2001) and Warren Weir (2013) also claimed silver.

Tebogo, meanwhile, is sharpening up. After an injury setback earlier this season, he showed glimpses of his best form at the Diamond League Finals in Zurich. He led most of the race before being nipped on the line by Lyles, who won in 19.74. Tebogo clocked 19.76, a season’s best that ranks him fifth this year.

The rivalry between Lyles and Bednarek adds extra spice. At the US Nationals, Lyles famously ran down Bednarek, staring him down as he crossed the line. Bednarek didn’t take kindly to it, giving him a shove after the finish. Their grudge match will only fuel the fire in Tokyo. Like Bolt, Lyles will be aiming for four wins in a row.

When the gun goes, expect fireworks. Lyles wants dominance. Tebogo wants redemption. And Levell – fearless, fast and hungry – could just be the one to shake the world.

Predicted Top Three

1. Noah Lyles (USA)

2. Letsile Tebogo (Botswana)

3. Kenneth Bednarek (USA)