American Justin Gatlin doesn't rule out return in 2020 Tokyo Games
RIO DE JANEIRO – Justin Gatlin refused to say whether these would be his final Olympics, leaving the door open – however slightly – for a run at competing in the 2020 Tokyo Games.
Gatlin was one leg of the men’s 4x100 relay team that initially won bronze on Friday night before being disqualified for an exchange violation.
Asked how he felt to end his Olympic career on such a low note, Gatlin replied, “I never said it was my last.”
Still, it remains hard to imagine the 34-year-old being able to compete at a high level in four years.
At the very least, Gatlin seems primed to compete on the international stage at next summer’s World Championships in London, which will double as Usain Bolt’s final appearance in competition.
“These Olympics have made me hungry to get ready for next year,” said Gatlin, who won silver in the 100 meters, his fourth individual medal.
“I’m going to rest well. I’m in the process of training, getting stronger and getting faster, man.”
The twice-suspended sprinter, who has never suffered for doubters, seemed to find additional motivation from questions about his ability to maintain an Olympic level despite being a decade or more older than many of his competitors.
“I mean, at 34 you guys were like, ‘You can’t race as fast at 34.’ But at 35 I plan on running even faster. So that’s my plan.”