Jonnie Peacock Aims for Third Paralympic Gold at Paris 2024
Jonnie Peacock is determined to target a third Paralympic gold at the Paris 2024 Games, stating he will be "ready to fight" for it, BBC reported. Peacock, aged 31, previously secured gold in London 2012 and Rio 2016 but ended up with a joint bronze in the T64 100m final in Tokyo three years prior.
Recently facing injuries and technical setbacks, Peacock finished fifth in the last World Championships but now claims to be "running better than I have run for the last four years."
Talking to BBC Sport’s Sally Hurst about his aspirations for Paris, Peacock expressed, "It's a very shiny medal. When you've won gold, silver medals aren't enjoyable; they're always disappointing. Now, I feel like I can fight again. The past few years left me off balance, barely maintaining my technique, but that's no longer the case."
The Paris Paralympic Games kick off with the opening ceremony on Wednesday, and the T64 100m final is scheduled for Monday at Stade de France. Peacock's strong, competitive spirit persists: "I felt annoyed by the Tokyo 2020 outcome. Paris 2024 is my chance to make things right. I'll be ready to fight, and it looks like it's going to be a tough contest."
Reflecting on his experience, Peacock recalled his rise to fame in London in 2012 winning the T44 100m gold at just 19, synced with a world record of 10.85 seconds. Despite a difficult phase, where gold eluded him post-2017, he regained his determination.
Promotion and excitement around the current Games impress Peacock, as he feels a reminiscent buzz in Paris akin to London. "Driving around and seeing Paralympians on posters is cool. It feels like London again," he remarked, hopeful for sell-out stadiums and enthusiastic crowds.
Looking ahead, Peacock anticipates competing at a fifth Paralympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028. "You're not getting rid of me yet," he stated. "For the first time in a while, I feel good. There's more to come, so expect to see me in LA."
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