From “absolute hell” to sheer jubilation, this summer has seen the breakthrough and transformation of Matt Hudson-Smith into a world class 400m contender. Lingering heel pain has finally subsided and consistency has followed: bronze at the World Championships in Eugene, a silver homecoming in Birmingham at the Commonwealth Games, but, crucially, a taste of what could soon follow in what is still a fledgling career at the event.
The defending European champion eyes gold this week to complete the set in 2022, but the 27-year-old has already achieved a sense of belonging, rubbing shoulders with world champion Michael Norman, former Olympic champion Kirani James and the return of world record holder Wayde Van Niekerk, as the event enjoys a resurgence.
