Zharnel Hughes likened his sub-20second run in the heats of the 200metres at the World Athletics Championship to a stroll in the park.
And the 100m bronze medallist said he was motivated to become the first British male sprinter in history to win two individual medals at the Worlds.
Hughes clocked a time of 19.9s in the opening 200m heat but eased up well before the line to suggest he is in medal contention alongside 100m gold medallist and favourite Noah Lyles.
Hughes said afterwards: “Stroll in the park, just like a Sunday job. I was waiting for the guys but I didn’t see anyone so I stay composed, kept my calm and run for it.
“Coach told me to take it easy, do what I needed to do and then shut it down afterwards. That’s exactly what I did.”
Lyles has proved himself to be the fastest man over the longer sprint distance this season and said his rivals knew he was the quickest guy going into the heats.
But Hughes said: “Noah is going to always talk, that’s who he is. I can’t stop him from talking but I will definitely be giving him a good run.
“I’m inspired after getting that medal. Makes me want it more, makes you more dedicated, more committed to see what I can actually do.”
