American world record holder Tim Montgomery's dismal season ended in defeat to Obadele Thompson in the 100 metres at the Super Track and Field meeting today.
A pumped-up Thompson, of Barbados, made a flying start holding off Montgomery to win in 10.20 seconds in Yokohama. Montgomery, who has struggled with his form since setting the world record of 9.78 in Paris last year, was runner-up in 10.32, with Nobuharu Asahara of Japan third in 10.39.
"Having the world record and getting beaten every race is stressful," said the American, who only managed fifth at the world championships in Paris last month. The 28-year-old also courted controversy at the start of the year through a brief alliance with disgraced Canadian coach Charlie Francis.
Francis was banned for life by his national federation for his role in supplying drugs to Ben Johnson, who tested positive after winning the 100 metres at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. "Four coaches in one season...it was always up and down, different philosophies. It hurt so bad this season, running around 10.04 after running 9.78," said Montgomery.