Michael Johnson reacts as NCAA Champion Nickisha Pryce runs world-leading 400m ahead of Paris Olympics

Retired American sprinting legend Michael Johnson expressed his anticipation for the 400m events after Jamaica's Nickisha Pryce won the 2024 London Diamond League, setting a new world lead time just six days ahead of the Paris Olympics.

Pryce showcased her blistering pace in the London Stadium on Saturday to win the 400m event with an impressive time of 48.57 seconds at the London Diamond League meet. She won her first professional event in some style at the English meet, setting a new Jamaican record and the seventh fastest time ever in the history of the discipline. With this, Pryce also broke Bahamian Olympic champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo's Diamond League record.

Taking down Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone's world lead time of 48.75 at the London event, the 23-year-old Jamaican represents the Arkansas Razorbacks in the collegiate competitions and has clinched the 400m SEC Championships in May, and also won the NCAA Division I Outdoor Championships in June. The London meeting was the ideal stage for Nickisha Pryce to rev up her preparations for the Paris Olympics, as she has qualified for the grand event and will be representing her nation in Paris.

Her record-breaking victory was appreciated by fans and pundits from all over the world. Joining in was America's former four-time Olympic champion sprinter, Michael Johnson, who expressed his excitement for the 400m events. Reposting Citius Mag's coverage of Pryce's London triumph, Johnson wrote on X:

"Women and Men 400 heating up!"

---

Michael Johnson shares words of encouragement for Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone as she prepares for the Paris Olympics participation

Olympic & Paralympic Games, Paris 2024 and Beyond - Laureus World Sports Awards Madrid 2024

Michael Johnson keeps up with the latest happenings in the track and field world even after years of retirement. He thrives on promoting the athletes and the sport by consistently motivating them.

It was evident recently when Johnson shot a video for Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone to encourage her before her Paris Olympics appearance. The video was shared by Team USA on their Instagram handle, where the eight-time world champion stated:

"Sydney, this is Michael Johnson. I know you're preparing for the Paris 2024 Olympics, and as a two-time Olympian already, I know you know how difficult that journey can be. But we're all supporting you and wishing for the best. All the best and good luck to you."

McLaughlin-Levrone expressed her gratitude to Michael Johnson for his encouragement and support. She also acknowledged her compatriot's incredible work for the betterment of track and field.