The 2021 World Under-20 800m champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi has pledged to deliver more pleasant surprises this season after cracking the world lead time a week ago.
Wanyonyi, 20, blew away an elite field to smash the tape in 1:43.27 at the Paris Diamond League. His vintage performance secured him bragging rights as the world's fastest man over the distance this year.
"I believe there is more still to come this year. I'm happy with what I have achieved so far but I strongly feel I can achieve a lot more with hard work and determination," Wanyonyi said.
Wanyonyi reiterated his desire to storm the gold medal at the upcoming World Championships in Budapest, saying he is sure he possesses the mojo to pull off a masterclass act in the premier global showpiece.
"I'm warming up for the World Championships that is only a few weeks away. My latest performances have boosted my morale and winning a gold medal in Budapest is increasingly becoming a reality."
The Kenyan track prodigy has been on a roll, scooping all three races he has run this season. He said there are many occasions his performance has baffled him.
"I'm enjoying my fine form. Sometimes, I can hardly believe the results I achieve on the track because the distance is full of talented individuals."
Wanyonyi set his season in motion when he lit up the 60,000-capacity Moi Stadium, Kasarani track on May 13 to retain the Kip Keino Classic 800m title.
He then annihilated a strong field to win the men’s 800m at the second Diamond League Meeting in Rabat, Morocco on May 28.
Buoyed by the splendid run, Wanyonyi now feels greatly poised to make Team Kenya the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.
"The outcomes have provided some insight into my present state of fitness as I get ready for the World Championships. The successive wins are a strong indication that I'm on the right track ahead of Budapest."
But Wanyonyi remains humble amid his amazing run, noting that he is aware of the cutthroat competition that his compatriots pose in the race for a ticket to Budapest.
"It's not lost on me that making Team Kenya will not be a walk in the park with the likes of Wycliffe Kinyamal, Elias Ngeny, Nicholas Kebenei, Ferguson Rotich, and Collins Kipruto also interested," he remarked.
"I appreciate that kind of tight competition because it has played a role in pushing me to new heights in my career. I know it will not be easy but I will do whatever I can to secure a ticket to Budapest."
