#1 | Race of 2015

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It was the matchup we had waited two years to see. It more than lived up to the hype.

Our #1 Race of 2015 is unquestionably the menÂ’s 100m final at the World Championships in Beijing, as the world finally got to witness the much-anticipated Usain Bolt v. Justin Gatlin showdown. And what a race it was. When the dust had settled, just .01 seconds separated the two men, with the mighty Bolt able to squeeze past the embattled American by the slightest of margins. 

In a year that the Jamaican spent a majority of the season looking vulnerable, all while Gatlin smashed PRs and overtook him as the most feared sprinter in the world, BoltÂ’s third World title in the sportÂ’s most iconic race was particularly impressive. Entering Beijing, the 29-year-old had only run a seasonÂ’s best of 9.87, as injury kept him away from the track for over a month between June and July. In contrast, Gatlin had run sub-9.80 four times throughout the season. 

A weakened Bolt compared to a stronger-than-ever Gatlin made for an easy choice as to who the favorite would be in China. But Bolt, who lives for the championship races, elevated his game when it mattered most, proving once again why he is the greatest sprinter in the history of ever. 

Using the rounds to his advantage, Bolt sharpened up just enough to nip Gatlin, who seemed to lose his balance just ahead of the line, giving the Jamaican an opportunity to pounce. 

“I leaned a little too forward and got off balance. By trying to catch my balance, my arms got a little flaily,” Gatlin said.

BoltÂ’s incredible showing in Beijing— which included a blowout victory over Gatlin in the 200m final (his fourth total) and yet another 4x1 gold (also his fourth)— was just the momentum that he needed as we approach his Olympic swan song in Rio. 

The soon-to-be 34-year-old Gatlin will be back for more, as will likely stronger versions of 2015 bronze medalists/the next generation duo of Trayvon Bromell and Andre De Grasse. HeÂ’ll have to rise to the occasion once more, and like every other time, it wonÂ’t be easy. 

But as we learned in 2015, itÂ’s foolish to ever dismiss Bolt, no matter what the circumstances. HeÂ’s the sportÂ’s greatest asset because of his repeated dominance in the most attractive race, and he reminded us of his tremendous value once again in Beijing.