Justin Gatlin stays focused after storming to Rome victory
Last Updated: 04/06/15 10:01pm
Justin Gatlin insists he is not thinking about Usain Bolt and the World Championships after producing another stunning performance to win the 100m in 9.75 seconds at the Diamond League meeting in Rome.
The American crossed the line just 0.01 seconds slower than his world leading time set in Doha last month, with France's Jimmy Vicaut and American Michael Rodgers both finishing 0.23s behind.
Gatlin, who has served two drugs bans in his career, now looks to be Bolt's only real competition in Beijing in August.
"This meeting is like the end of the first part of the season and now I am heading home and after the trials I will have a month to train and to spend with my son and my family," he said.
"That will help me keep in shape for Beijing. I want to stay injury free and in the best shape for 2016 and the year after.
"The key thing to keep winning is to not think about it, I do not think of beating Usain Bolt because the championships are not tomorrow, we still have some time to come.
"Rome is a tradition, I am glad I had a good start and managed to execute the first 60 metres to be confident with the victory - 9.60 should be possible in the summer."
