• Athletics

I've got the edge on Bolt - Powell

ESPN staff
July 9, 2011
Asafa Powell has clocked the fastest 100 metres time in the world this year © Getty Images
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Jamaica's 100 metres star Asafa Powell has told Usain Bolt and Tyson Gay that he has the strongest case for calling himself the planet's No. 1 sprinter.

Powell has clocked the fastest time in the world this year over 100m, running 9.78 seconds in Lausanne last week; in contrast, Bolt has not gone below 9.91.

And Powell knows he has an ideal opportunity to underline his supremacy in the coming months, with Gay ruled out for the rest of the season due to injury.

Bolt and Powell are due to meet at the World Championships in South Korea next month, where Bolt will defend his 100m and 200m titles.

"I'm the No. 1 sprinter this year and I'm the man to beat," Powell said. "That gives me confidence, the edge over everyone. I've done this time this year and that is the time to beat.

"For the rest of the season I know the spotlight will still be on Bolt. Maybe after the World Champs we'll see if that will change and who will be in the spotlight.

"Leave me in the background for now. That suits me. He can take the heat and I will win. That's the plan. Tyson not being around does honestly make it easier. With Tyson there as well if you make a slight mistake it's difficult to win.

"Now without him you still have a chance. You can make a small mistake and still cross the finish line first."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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