Tharp: "I’ve watched the video of Merritt’s world record countless times"

In 2012, Aries Merritt ran a world record time in the 110-metre hurdles at the Allianz Memorial Van Damme, a record that would stand for 14 years. Until Ja’Kobe Tharp broke it in Eugene this June. “Oh yes, I know very well that that world record was set here in Brussels,” laughs Tharp. “I’ve watched that video countless times.”

Tharp is only 20 and set his world record (12.75) at the NCAA Championships, the US college championships. “I just wanted to win the title there. That world record wasn’t a goal – it will be later in my career – but right now it was just a bonus, the cherry on the cake,” explains Tharp.

“Afterwards, I managed to have a quick chat with Aries Merritt; he was there as a coach. He whispered some advice in my ear. I’ve watched the video of his world record, which he set here in Brussels, countless times,” says the 20-year-old world record holder, who is still at the very beginning of his career.

“Above all, I’m delighted that I’m having a very consistent first professional season. I want to show people who I am, especially when it really counts. And that’s certainly the case for the Wanda Diamond League final. I’ll try to shift up a gear, level up there. I’m really looking forward to Friday’s race. It’s all about trophies and medals – they’re for life. Records are there to be broken.”

“I’m not suffering from fatigue. I train to be ready for every race, even late in the season,” concludes a confident Tharp.