Usain Bolt could join your elite company by the time these world championships are finished.
The hard-charging, fun-seeking Jamaican will chase after two more world titles this week that would give him eight in his career, tying him with Lewis and Johnson for most all time.
These days, Bolt hardly takes a backseat to them, or anyone else. Plus, he's in charge of rescuing a sport that's been recently riddled with doping offenses. Tyson Gay, Asafa Powell, Veronica Campbell-Brown and Sherone Simpson all tested positive weeks before the competition.
Then, Trinidad and Tobago sprinter Kelly-Ann Baptiste withdrew from 100 because she's involved in a doping case, her federation said today. Another dark cloud hovering over track.
"Track needs stars like Bolt. But he's not the only person in this sport that's a star. We have plenty of stars. But it's good that he shows his personality. He's able to have fun with the crowd. That's why people gravitate to him. That's why they love him.
"More than that, you need to have great races to overcome all of that (bad) news."
Bolt's rain-soaked performance Sunday night certainly qualifies as a memorable race.
In stormy conditions, Bolt roared back after falling behind Justin Gatlin to recapture his 100 title. Sun, rain, heat, whatever, the conditions really don't matter because the fastest man on the planet always seems in his element whenever he sets foot on the track.
"I continue to work on my aim to become a legend by collecting gold medals and athlete of year titles," Bolt said. He may already be there.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
