‘I Respect You, but I’m the Greatest’: Usain Bolt’s Biggest Rivalry Was More Personal Than You Think

Published 12/20/2021, 2:39 PM EST

Jamaica’s national hero, Usain Bolt, is well known for his breath-taking achievements throughout his career. The athlete is a world record holder in the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 4 x 100 meters relay race.

Besides track and field, the star sprinter is also interested in football, cricket, and music. Bolt’s documentary film, ‘I am Bolt’, also gained worldwide popularity. Nicknamed Lightning Bolt, the athlete never failed to display hard work and dedication through his performances.

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After beating Yohan Blake at the 2012 London Olympics, Bolt used his gesture to mark his victory. Opening up about the same, Usain reveals how his rivalry with Blake was more than personal than one could imagine.

Throwback to when Usain Bolt shocked the world

Bolt’s defeat in the national trials for London Olympics encouraged him to practice hard and put his best foot forward in the finals. Just before the finals, Bolt exhibited confidence when he was asked about his preparations.

“I’m like ‘Yo I’m so ready for this finals’,” said Bolt.

Winning that race, Bolt used Blake’s signature gesture to mark his victory, crossing the finishing line. Even though he respects Blake, when it came to competing, Bolt kept the friendship aside.

“Because I start digging when I got to the finish line, I remember Blake doing something at the national trials. He went like this (makes hand gesture) after the race and when I was going to a lot of it like this and I was looking at him,” said the 8-time Olympic gold medallist.

“Just letting him know that I’m still number one. You’re my teammate, I respect you, but I’m the greatest,” he added.

Although they were teammates, there was a clear personal rivalry between the two athletes. However, Bolt’s that victory proved his supremacy in the track and field.

Bolt and Prince Harry

Recently, the sprinting star revealed the current status of his relationship with old friend Prince Harry. They two first met when Prince Harry visited Jamaica in 2012 on the occasion of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

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However, it’s been a while since the two friends caught up.

“I think he got really serious, really quickly. He is about married life and good for it now so has left that life behind now,” said Bolt.

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Regardless, the two remain extremely good friends. Despite maintaining a good relationship with his peers, Usain never lets his feeling get the better of him on the track. Undoubtedly, fans would shell gold to see the sprinting maestro return to the track in 2022. Do you think a comeback is possible?

Last Nights of Freedom: Usain Bolt wanted to Throw Prince Harry a Massive Bachelor Party before marriage

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Richa Goswami is a US Sports writer at EssentiallySports. As an adherent learner, she uses her journalistic persona to navigate through new skills. Richa has completed her schooling at Don Bosco.

‘I Respect You, but I’m the Greatest’: Usain Bolt’s Biggest Rivalry Was More Personal Than You Think

Throwback to when Usain Bolt shocked the world

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Bolt and Prince Harry