Kylian Mbappe has agreed to Usain Bolt’s 100-meter race challenge, though he remains modest about his chances.
The Paris Saint-Germain forward accepted the challenge after reports surfaced that he had run 100 meters in approximately 10.90 seconds during a soccer match and highlighted on BBC social media, sparking curiosity and playful dialogue within the athletics community.
Despite his athletic prowess on the football field, Mbappe is realistic about racing against Bolt, the world-renowned sprinter. “I don’t think I have much of a chance,” Mbappe stated during a recent Nike event and his foundation, Inspired by KM.
The idea of the race gained traction after an exchange of messages between Mbappe and Bolt. Bolt, known for his humour and sportsmanship, initially joked about Mbappe’s time, commenting, “The girls are running faster than that [10.9].” While admiring Mbappe at the Laureus Awards red carpet, he remarked, “He has a special talent. Mbappe is very fast. Very fast on the ball.”
In response, Mbappe expressed mutual admiration for Bolt, acknowledging the inspiration he has drawn from the sprinter’s career. “Knowing that I inspire such a person is gratifying. He inspired everyone as well. And I think everyone stayed up late at night to watch Usain Bolt run. I can say it’s mutual, and I started before he did to look up to him.”
Regarding the potential race, Mbappe laughed, “I don’t think I have much choice. But it would be nice for fun. If we both have time, why not one day to do something nice?”
