100m gold in intense competition

It ended America's 20-year wait for the men's 100m gold. American runner Justin Gatlin won gold in the 100 meters at the Athens Olympics.

The 27-year-old runner from Floria edged Jamaica's Keeson Thompson into second place in the race at the Stade de France. The gap remained, a fraction of 5 thousandths of a second. The American runner clocked 9.784 seconds and Thomson clocked 9.789 seconds. 9.79 seconds will be recorded as the official time.

This was the most intense competition since the introduction of electronic timing in the Olympics. Lyles' American Fred Kerley finished third. His time remained, 9.81 seconds. The entire race was so competitive that the electronic board was only showing pictures for a long time. After waiting for some time, it was confirmed that Lyles had won the gold. Along with this, Lyles, the world champion player of 100 meters and 200 meters, celebrated happily.

"I wanted a gold medal," Lyles said after the race, "this race was very competitive." Everyone tried to prove themselves by running as hard as they could. I had to make sure that I was the best. I have been the best among the fastest runners.'' He admitted that after the race, there was some doubt that he was the winner. He honestly believed that anyone could win.

He added, 'I thought, maybe Thomson's name will come as the winner? However, the name of the winner remained mine.' After this success, the three-year journey of Lyles has come to an end. The Tokyo Olympics three years ago were not pleasant for him and he was forced to leave the competition due to mental health problems. That too with emotion. The World Championship was pleasant for him.

Lyles will now try to win gold in the 2000m race as well. He also has another goal. That is, setting new records in both categories held by Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt. Bolt retired in 2017. Lyles will also have the chance to win two more Olympic relay golds.