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American sprint icon Justin Gatlin has made a bold prediction regarding Olympic champion Masai Russell after her exciting match-up with a rival at the New Balance Grand Prix.
Former world champion Justin Gatlin believes the intense rivalry between 100m hurdles Olympic champion Masai Russell and 60m hurdles world record holder Devynne Charlton will elevate both athletes to new heights.
Speaking on his Ready Set Go podcast, co-hosted with Rodney Green, Gatlin emphasized how their competitive spirit will drive them forward throughout the season.
Russell and Charlton recently clashed at the New Balance Grand Prix on February 2, competing in the 60m hurdles.
Russell claimed victory with a time of 7.80 seconds, narrowly edging out Grace Stark, who finished second. Charlton, meanwhile, secured third place with a time of 7.85 seconds.
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“I love it when you have two athletes at such a high level,” Gatlin said.
“You have the indoor world record holder in the 60-meter hurdles and the Olympic champion in the 100-meter hurdles outdoors, and they're going against each other day in and day out at practice. Then, when they get to the meets, it's almost just like practice for them, but at a whole new level," he added.
Since capturing Olympic gold in Paris, Russell has demonstrated her commitment to maintaining an elite standard.
Gatlin noted her mindset and determination in interviews, quoting her as saying, ‘I have to train like an Olympic champion, compete like an Olympic champion, and dominate these next four years like an Olympic champion would.’
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“A lot of athletes win Olympic gold and then think, ‘Alright, what’s next?’ Some even experience what they call the Post-Olympic Blues, where their performances take a dive,” Gatlin explained.
“They still have the skill, but many don't live up to the expectations after winning gold. Masai, on the other hand, is handling business.”
Charlton, who holds the women's world record for the 60m hurdles with a blistering 7.65 seconds—set at the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow on March 3, 2024—remains a formidable competitor.
Gatlin, a former 100m world record holder is excited about the season ahead, predicting thrilling matchups between the two sprinters.
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“Between her and Devyn, I expect something amazing this season because iron sharpens iron,” Gatlin said.
“Watching them battle it out, Masai winning with 7.80 and Devyn right behind at 7.85, shows just how close they are. Neck and neck. Let’s see what happens—keep that popcorn warm!”
With both athletes pushing each other to new levels, their rivalry promises to be one of the most exciting storylines of the season.
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