"A real one" - Kenny Bednarek reacts to girlfriend Sharmila Nicollet penning a heartfelt tribute for him after Paris Olympics

American sprinter Kenny Bednarek reacted to his girlfriend Sharmila Nicollet’s heartfelt post dedicated to him following the 2024 Paris Olympics. Bednarek took home the silver medal in the men’s 200m after finishing second to Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo in the finals.

Bednarek recently appeared on the Running Effect Podcast where he claimed Nicollet has played a crucial role in his career as she encouraged him to elevate his strategies to make it to the highest level when they first met each other in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also helped the two-time Olympic medalist find the right support staff.

Bednarek also credited Nicollet as the main reason behind his success. Following this, Sharmila Nicollet shared a heartfelt message for Bednarek on Instagram where she talked about his achievements in track and field being just more than medals. She wrote:

“These achievements are more than just medals - it’s a testament to your unwavering dedication, perseverance, pushing past limits, never giving up even when the odds seemed insurmountable and the countless sacrifices you’ve made along the way.”

She added:

“I’ve seen firsthand the discipline and sacrifices it took for you to reach this point. I’m beyond proud of you, not just for your success, but for the way you’ve carried yourself through every challenge, every setback and every triumph.”

The Indian golfer concluded by adding that she was very proud of him and her heart was full and mentioned that this was just the beginning.

Bednarek responded to this heartfelt post via an Instagram story, adding:

“A real one for all that you have done for me to get me to where I am and for writing this tribute 🙏❤️”

Screenshot of Kenny's Instagram story

Bednarek also commented on Nicollet's post:

“None of this would be possible if it wasn’t for you. Standing by my side and supporting me through all the ups and downs. You have truly helped elevate me as a person and as an athlete. I thank you for all the love and support you have given in the past, present and in the near future as well 😭❤️ I love you”

Bednarek's reply to Sharmila Nicollet's post

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Sharmila Nicollet proposed using the nickname 'Kung Fu Kenny' to Kenny Bednarek

Kenny Bednarek at the World Athletics Championships 2023 (Photo by Sven Hoppe/picture alliance via Getty Images)

In an interview with Sportstar, Kenny Bednarek revealed that Sharmila Nicollet was the person who suggested using the nickname ‘Kung Fu Kenny’. This included him wearing a colorful hachimaki-style headband during his track meetings.

Bednarek said:

“Some of the girls have colorful hair and nails. In the men’s side, there’s nothing like that. We all have the same gear and everything. I wanted to have my own push on the track, and it made sense for me because the kung fu culture has a set of values that resonate with me like discipline, humbleness, dedication.”

They came up with the idea to help Bednarek stand out among other professional sprinters.