Justin Gatlin 'fine' with Beijing meet organisers

Justin Gatlin says he has a great relationship with the organisers of the Beijing World Challenge

Beijing, May 20 (IANS): American star sprinter Justin Gatlin said on Wednesday that he was fine with Beijing World Challenge organisers, less than 24 hours after claiming he was "kicked out" of the event.

Gatlin, who holds the world leading 100 metres timing this year, said on Tuesday that he had planned to run the event here despite injury concerns but was told he was not wanted. The sprinter, who has served two doping bans, said he left for the airport to fly home to Florida and that he was "upset" by the lack of respect shown to him, reports Xinhua.

The sprinter, however, later said he was looking forward to running in the Beijing meeting next year.

"Emotional day. All is fine with Beijing Org&me. We have a great relationship and I look forward to being there in Aug for worlds&next year for the meet," Gatlin tweeted.

Organisers of the Beijing meet didn't comment on the same. The Beijing World Challenge will be held later on Wednesday.