Letsile Tebogo reveals Diamond League final race after Rome glory

Olympics 200m champion Letsile Tebogo shared that hours before his 100m race at the Rome Diamond League, he had numerous emotional breakdowns. 

Tebogo overhauled world indoor champion Christian Coleman and Olympic bronze medallist Fred Kerley to win the men’s 100m in 9.87. 

The 21-year-old, who finished sixth in the Olympic 100m final in a national record of 9.86, overhauled Coleman, the fast-starting 60m world record holder, and Kerley over the final 30 metres, turning to face them before crossing the line with a broad smile.

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“I wouldn't say I was in great shape due to the mental breakdowns prior to the race. I just missed my mom and I think it affected me so bad, but I tried to keep a positive attitude and medidated on the race. I didn’t try to show to anyone that, ‘the boy is not okay.’ I remained calm, just in my corner, thought through the emotions and was good to go," Tebogo who lost his mother in the lead up to the Paris Olympics opened up in an interview with @Fentuo_ on X.

He says this was just part of his build up for the Diamond League final in Brussels where he has revealed he will compete in the 200m. 

"I was just testing my speed here. I am yet to qualify for the 100m Diamond League final and even if I were to make I would still choose the 200m which I am more comfortable racing. Unlike the 100m where I don't have time to recover in case of a bad start, the 200m gives me that room and I express myself well here," the youngster explained. 

Asked what his motivation for the remaining part of the season was, he minced his words not as he said he is just out to make money and have fun before taking a deserved break after the DL final to enjoy the season he has had. 

"I haven't had time to myself. After Paris I had to train for Lausanne DL and at the same time everyone wanted a piece of me back home. I will conclude my season and head on holiday, to celebrate the season I just had," Tebogo who says he will watch some Formula One and sneak it a Premier league match for his favourite team Chelsea before getting back to work.