Bet of the day: Kirani James to retain men’s 400m title at Olympics

Only LaShawn Merritt, who is doubling up to take on Usain Bolt and compatriot Justin Gatlin in the 200m later on this coming week, has gone faster than James around a full lap of the track in 2016.

While double duty for the American may be distracting, James’ sole focus in on retaining the 400m title at the Olympics.

No sign Van Niekerk repeating 2015 form

Another race rival, Wayde Van Niekerk of South Africa may be the reigning world champion in this event, but there’s been no evidence he’s in the same shape as last season.

James, meanwhile, has two of the three fastest times this year. Merritt’s 400m world lead came at the US trials, yet that was in early July and he thus could’ve peaked too early.

While no athlete shows their entire hand in the semis of a major championships, Kirani James remains among top Olympics tips because he’s the most consistent over a lap.

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