Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt, one of the most successful international athletes of recent times, announced on September 4 his intention to retire after his participation in the Río de Janeiro Olympic Games in 2016.
In a press conference in Brussels, before participating in the 100 meter Diamond League, the record-holder and world champion stated that he's considering retiring from competitions "while I'm still on top," reported CNN.
The Jamaican athlete discarded the possibility of competing in other disciplines, after it was speculated that he could move to 400 meters. "That is not going to happen professionally. I don't like going into a race knowing I'm going to lose," the 27-year-old athlete said between laughter.
Bolt said that if he stayed free from injury, it's very possible he could beat his current world record in 200 metres (19.19) next season, however, the sprinter admitted that the possibility of beating his record in the hectometer (9.58) is complicated.
The Jamaican athlete, who is the fastest in the world, won three gold medals last month in Moscow, becoming the athlete with the most awards in history with a total of eight gold medals and two silver, reported El Universal.
"If I want to be among the greats like Ali and Pelé and everyone else, I have to keep dominating until I retire," said Bolt, who has no important championships scheduled for next season. The sprinter plans to train for the upcoming year, with special focus on avoiding any type of injury.
The sprinter has already had unpleasant experiences in this regards. In 2010, Bolt suffered an injury that almost cost him an entire season.
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