Michael Johnson Tips Jamaican Talent to Challenge 400m Queen Marileidy Paulino

Michael Johnson Tips Jamaican Talent to Challenge 400m Queen Marileidy Paulino

Abigael Wafula 23:00 - 05.05.2025

Michael Johnson believes a rising Jamaican talent has the potential to end Marileidy Paulino's dominance in the 400m.

American sprint legend Michael Johnson has name-checked the Jamaican quarter-miler who might dethrone Marileidy Paulino.

The Dominican 400m star has dominated the distance, making waves as one of the best half-lap runners, but her reign might just be coming to an end following the rise of Jamaica’s Nickisha Pryce.

Having been tipped to make an impact by the four-time Olympic champion, Nickisha Pryce will be looking to make the prophecy come true by dethroning the reigning world and Olympic champion.

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Michael Johnson on why Nickisha Pryce is the next big thing

Nickisha Pryce
Nickisha Pryce

Commenting on a video shared on the Grand Slam Track X (Twitter) handle showcasing Paulino’s impressive 400m and being a 400m specialist, Michael Johnson could not hold back.

Marileidy Paulino won the 400m at the Grand Slam Track, clocking an impressive 49.21 seconds before winning the 200m in style too. On her part, Nickisha Pryce finished fifth in the 400m and fourth in the 200m.

However, Michael Johnson believes Nickisha Pryce will be the next big thing in the 400m if she works on a few aspects of her race.

He added that for now, Marileidy Paulino remains the undisputed queen of the 400m, thanks to her superb technique of running.

“Marileidy is already a champion. Nickisha will be! Notice the arm swing difference. With upper body strength, Marileidy maintains proper form in the fatigue phase of a 400. Nickisha’s arm swinging out causes torso rotation, shortening her stride at the worst time in the race,” he commented.

While Marileidy Paulino continues to reign supreme in the 400m with her impeccable technique, the emergence of Nickisha Pryce has not gone unnoticed, especially by sprint legend Michael Johnson.

With targeted improvements, particularly in her form during the critical fatigue phase, Nikisha Pryce has the potential to challenge Marileidy Paulino's dominance and usher in a new era for Jamaican quarter-milers.

The stage is set for an exciting rivalry, as the queen faces a rising challenger poised to fulfil Michael Johnson's prophecy.

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