We can all attest to the fact that we felt somewhat disappointed as to how the legend’s last race concluded. It was by far contrary to the fairytale ending that many of us around the world and perhaps the big man himself was expecting. But Usain Bolt getting his first ever bronze medal in what was his last ever individual competitive performance shouldn’t necessarily be viewed as a major underachievement from the athlete’s perspective. It should be seen as an example of his complete dominance in the sport that it comes off as a major shock to see him walk away with nothing but a gold medal hanging around his neck.

His loss, however, symbolises something far greater. To see Bolt run for the last time in the 100m has probably not sunken in as yet, but when we fast-forward to the next World Championships, which will be held in Qatar, and we do not see the familiar face of the Jamaican, then it will completely come to our realisation that the greatness that is Usain Bolt is now a memory.

Perhaps this shock of a Bolt defeat will prepare us for the shift in dominance that is about to happen. A new era of Track & Field will now be forced to show itself. The likes of American Christian Coleman, Canada’s Andre De Grasse and our very own Yohan Blake will now be expected to carry on the mantle Bolt has left behind.

We should however be grateful that we were alive to experience nine years worth of absolute supremacy from a Jamaican who came from humble beginnings. His attitude towards the sport completely set the foundation for many athletes to build on. He revolutionised the world of Track & Field as well as what it means to be a true Jamaican and for that not even a defeat to his most infamous rival in his last ever competitive individual performance can tarnish that.

Bolt still has one more opportunity to strike, which will be in the men’s 4 x 100m relay. We should expect that his teammates will do all they can to ensure that he does not leave this Championship without a gold medal. It is however important to note that no matter what happens, his legacy will never die and his achievements will surely not be forgotten.