Gift Leotlela on Beating Oblique Seville, Injury Comebacks, and Chasing World Championship Glory
By Ijaz Ahmad
TORONTO: Oblique Seville managed to make the semi finals of the Tokyo World Championships in the 100 meters but by the tiniest of margins after finishing third.
Jamaican sprinter Oblique Seville insists there is no cause for concern despite a shaky start in his opening 100m heat at the Tokyo World Championships, where he finished third behind Nigeria’s Kanyinsola Ajayi and South Africa’s Gift Leotlela.
Seville, who clocked 9.93 seconds to qualify for the semifinals, admitted that his start was not ideal but stressed that he remains calm and confident about his chances in the rounds ahead.
“No, it’s not really scary. The first round just went really fast, but I’m not doubting anyone and their performance,” Seville told reporters after his race.
“For me, it’s about taking it step by step. I know I’m in the semifinal now, and from here I’ll just do my best.”
The 23-year-old, who entered the championships as one of Jamaica’s main medal hopes following a consistent season, conceded that his execution at the blocks was below par. But he was quick to brush off concerns.
“Things happen. But everything is going to be fine in the semifinal and final,” he added.
Asked how he remains composed after a slow start, Seville pointed to his past experiences of racing from difficult positions.
“I’ve had a number of races where I’ve had to run from the back. As an athlete, it’s not all the time your start is going to work.
“There are going to be moments where bad things happen, and you just have to recover from them. I’ve learned my lesson both ways, so I know what to do.”
Seville has endured heartbreak in previous championships, often falling short in the finals despite promising form in the buildup.
But this time, he believes he is in the best shape of his career and ready to deliver when it matters most.
“Everything has changed this season. My confidence is good, my shape is good, and I feel really strong. I’m not worried,” he said, looking ahead to Sunday’s semifinal and final showdown against the likes of Noah Lyles and Kishane Thompson.
Edited By Sumayyah Ahmad
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www:sportslinehd.com
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