Hudson-Smith bids to end 100-year wait as Korda tees off at Olympics

FRANCE – Matthew Hudson-Smith will attempt to become Britain’s first Olympic men’s 400m champion in 100 years on Wednesday, while women’s golf star Nelly Korda begins the defence of her title.

Victory would represent a huge achievement for Hudson-Smith who was at a personal low after being isolated in the United States during the Covid pandemic, racking up huge medical bills as he recovered from a torn hamstring and Achilles.

The 29-year-old has arrived in Paris in peak form, clocking a blistering 43.74sec at last month’s London Diamond League – the fastest time in the world this year.

Hudson-Smith qualified for the final by easing to victory in his semi-final on Tuesday.

However, one of his major threats is the man who beat him in the Commonwealth Games final, Zambia’s Muzala Samukonga, an unpredictable runner who looked good in the heats.

Also on the track, Moroccan hero Soufiane El Bakkali will defend his 3000m steeplechase crown and bid to become only the third Arab to win double Olympic gold.

“Thanks to all the experience I have, I know how to manage pressure,” said the two-time world champion, who eased through his heat in first place.

The women’s pole vault and men’s discus medals will be decided in the field events at the Stade de France.

– Korda heads golf field –