Zharnel Hughes is determined to shed his “nearly man” label, and Britain’s fastest sprinter is hoping that the strength he’s gained from fatherhood will push him to finally win a coveted global medal.
Hughes, who holds the national records in both the 100m and 200m, saw his Olympic ambitions dashed last year due to a hamstring injury. But after becoming a father to a baby boy during the winter, the 29 year old says the experience has shifted his outlook, and he’s now focused on redeeming past setbacks at this September’s World Championships in Tokyo.
It was in Tokyo four years ago, during the Olympic Games, that Hughes suffered two major blows he false-started in the 100m final and later lost a relay silver medal after teammate CJ Ujah failed a doping test. Despite those painful memories, Hughes says returning to Tokyo fills him with excitement, not dread.
“My body feels really good and strong,” he says, after already putting together a string of solid performances in Michael Johnson’s Grand Slam series. “It would be incredible to rewrite history. Tokyo’s in the past I’ve moved on. Now I’m excited to compete.”
A big believer in manifestation, Hughes keeps a daily journal tracking his emotional and professional journey. Rather than being weighed down by past disappointments, he views his accumulated experience as one of his greatest strengths.
Earlier this season, he spotted some technical flaws in his block starts during a few races, but stayed calm and still managed strong finishes a sign of his growing maturity. He jokes about not wanting to think about turning 30 next month, but admits he’s gained a new level of insight.
“I’m a different athlete now,” Hughes explains. “It used to be just a job, but now I have a son to take care of.”
“Every day I see him smile or hear him laugh, and it changes everything. That’s what matters most now his happiness, providing for him and making sure the family’s okay. That’s what makes me happy.”
As he prepares for a summer of competitions across Europe and a trip to Asia in the fall, Hughes is aware of the emotional toll it may take. He and his family are already rehearsing FaceTime calls to stay connected while he’s away.
“It’s not going to be easy, but it’s part of the journey,” he says. “And if I can bring that medal back home, all the sacrifice will be worth it.”
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