Usain Bolt, the legendary eight-time Olympic gold medalist, has been announced as an ambassador for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, a development unveiled on Wednesday, April 24th.
Expressing his belief in cricket’s potential growth in America, Bolt sees this year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted in the USA and the Caribbean, as a significant catalyst. Having excelled in athletics, Bolt’s journey into track and field began at the behest of his cricket coach during his high school days in Jamaica, where cricket was a prominent part of his upbringing.
With close ties to West Indies cricket icon Chris Gayle, Bolt eagerly anticipates his involvement in the upcoming tournament, emphasizing his longstanding connection to the sport. “I am thrilled to be an ambassador for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup,” said Bolt in a recent statement to the ICC. “Coming from the Caribbean where Cricket is a part of life, the sport has always held a special place in my heart, and I am honoured to be part of such a prestigious tournament.”
Enthusiastic about the anticipated vibrant atmosphere in the Caribbean, Bolt envisions fans revelling in the region’s trademark blend of dance, music, and high-energy ambience. Additionally, he looks forward to witnessing cricket’s potential impact in the American market, a venture he believes holds promise for the sport’s long-term growth.
Drawing parallels with the fervour seen in American sports, Bolt expresses confidence in cricket’s reception, particularly with the anticipated excitement surrounding the T20 World Cup. “America believes a lot in sport and high intensity, and for me to get into that market is big,” he remarked. “If we bring energy like I know we will for the T20 (World Cup), it is going to be wonderful.”
Looking ahead to cricket’s return to the Summer Olympics in 2028, Bolt underscores the significance of Olympic participation, drawing parallels with the esteemed status of the event in the world of basketball. “Every sport tries to get into the Olympics because it is such a big thing and it is such a great feeling to be on a podium winning that gold medal,” he noted, highlighting the universal allure and prestige of Olympic competition.
