Scottish 1500m world champion Josh Kerr is gearing up for a fierce showdown in Paris, aiming to secure Olympic gold. Confident in his abilities, Kerr asserts that he is the best in the world and plans to prove it by outpacing rival Jakob Ingebrigtsen at the Stade de France, adding an Olympic title to his accolades.
Kerr’s rivalry with Norwegian Ingebrigtsen, the defending 1500m champion, is one of the most anticipated clashes of the Games. Their competition intensified last year when Kerr triumphed over Ingebrigtsen in Budapest to claim the world title, only for Ingebrigtsen to attribute his loss to illness, downplaying Kerr’s victory.
With the Opening Ceremony on the Seine marking the start of the 33rd Olympiad, Kerr is eager for the athletics events to commence. His sights are set on the August 6 final, with heats beginning four days prior. The 26-year-old has placed the pressure on his rival, stating, “It’s his title to lose. I’m the best in the world at 1500m and have been aiming for Olympic gold my entire career. Now, there are few who can stand in my way.”
“The headlines will highlight our rivalry, but I’ll be racing against everyone on the track. I’m the best in the world, with the best system and coaches, ready for battle.”
Kerr, who took bronze in Tokyo three years ago with a personal best of 3:29.05, acknowledges the challenge posed by Ingebrigtsen’s recent European record run of 3:26.73 in Monaco. However, Kerr is confident he is ready to deliver his best performance after breaking Mo Farah’s world record in the indoor two-mile at the Millrose Games in February and securing European indoor gold in the 3000m in Glasgow.
He also defeated Ingebrigtsen in the Bowerman Mile in May, setting a new British record of 3:45.34. Focused on Paris, Kerr believes he has significantly improved since his world title win 12 months ago. He credits his momentum to fellow Scot Jake Wightman’s world success two years ago.
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“Have I improved since Budapest? Massively. My indoor performances showed that. It’s momentum. Like Jake after his world championship win, I’m on fire. I’m confident in my training and ready to race.”
Kerr’s self-assurance contrasts with the typically modest Scottish sporting demeanor. However, it should not be mistaken for arrogance. Beneath his competitive exterior is a deep commitment to his sport and inspiring future athletes.
“I’ve been professional for six and a half years, and I’m proud of my achievements. But it’s not about seeking fame. I’ve had meaningful conversations with young athletes at the UK Championships, and I take that responsibility seriously.”
“People come to these events for inspiration, and I want to provide that insight. I’ve had great role models like Jake Wightman, Russell Hair, and Mo Farah, and I aim to offer the same support to the next generation.”
Kerr isn’t the only Scot with dreams of a podium finish in the 1500m as the sun sets on Paris on August 6.
[…] The Paris 2024 men’s Olympic 1500 metres was preceded by a bucketful of talk, some of it maybe contrived, but all of it setting the scene for an epic showdown between defending champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen and the man who beat him for last year’s world championship, Josh Kerr. […]