Kenny Bednarek: A Relentless Force

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“Coming from the foster care system, a community college, and the small town of Rice Lake doesn’t limit how great you can become. I want to be the best to ever do it, to give back to my community, and inspire the next generation.”

 

This sentiment perfectly captures the essence of Kenny Bednarek - a fierce competitor, a gifted athlete, and one of the most impressive talents in track and field today. From JUCO underdog to Olympic medalist, Bednarek has carved out a legacy built on grit, speed, and sheer determination.

A two-time Olympic silver medalist, ten-time Diamond League winner, World Championship silver

medalist, and two-time Diamond League Champion, Bednarek currently ranks No. 2 globally in the men’s 200m. Although Kenny makes it look easy, his success certainly didn't happen overnight. It's been a relentless pursuit for this tenacious young athlete as he strives for greatness.

 

Kung Fu Kenny first stole the spotlight in 2020 when he claimed silver in the 200m at the Tokyo

Olympics. This remarkable feat set the stage for an extraordinary 2021, during which he dazzled fans with four Diamond League victories in Lausanne, Zurich, Doha, and Gateshead, as well as a win at the World Continental in Ostrava. Reinforcing his elite status, the former World #1 was awarded “Most Consistent Track and Field Athlete,” and crowned Diamond League Champion.

 

In 2022, he followed with a silver medal at the World Championships and added Diamond League wins in Rabat and Rome. His resilience shone in 2023 when, despite a grade two hamstring strain and a grade three fascia tear, he secured a spot on the USA team for the 200m. Against the odds, he placed fifth at the World Championships and clinched the Diamond League title in Brussels - further establishing himself as one of the sport’s most determined competitors.

 

Beyond his natural talent, Kenny attributes his competitive edge to a potent blend of factors: rigorous training, a focus on nutrition, and mental fortitude. He balances his professional commitments with time for friends, family, and hobbies - embodying the belief that rest is just as vital as hard work. His internal drive is a rare quality, and it’s his insatiable desire to excel that propels him forward.

 

Year after year, this world-class athlete has exceeded expectations, so it should come as no surprise that 2024 became the pinnacle of his success. He notched four personal bests and added two prestigious titles to his collection. Kenny kicked off the year with a stunning 100m victory at the World Continental Tour in Kenya, followed by a jaw-dropping personal best of 19.67 and a win at the Doha Diamond League. He continued his winning streak at the Prefontaine Diamond League and shattered records during the Olympic trials, clocking 9.87 in the 100m and 19.59 in the 200m. For the first time, he qualified for all three Olympic teams (100m, 200m, and 4x100m) and once again secured silver in the men’s 200m at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

 

In a stunning finale, Bednarek achieved his fourth personal best at the Zurich Diamond League, crossing the finish line in 19.57. He capped off an extraordinary season by winning the Diamond League meet in Brussels, reclaiming the title of Diamond League Champion.

 

Building on the momentum of a career-defining season, Bednarek entered 2025 with a clear focus -

domination. As one of the first male sprinters to sign with Grand Slam Track, Kenny was ready to show up and show off for the inaugural season. And he has done just that. From Kingston to Philadelphia, he's been untouchable—undefeated in both the 100m and 200m. The three-time Grand Slam Champion isn’t just winning—he’s breaking records and making history. With two world-leading times and personal bests: 19.84 in Miami (200m) and 9.86 in Philadelphia (100m), Kenny has been Grand Slam's most dominant competitor. Winning six out of six races and earning the maximum points possible in each, Grand Slam came to a thrilling close with Kenny earning the title “Racer of the Year.”

 

“This league has been the perfect place to show what I’m capable of in both the 100m and 200m. Every step I’ve taken this season has been part of a plan and now it’s all coming together: PBs, World Leads, and most importantly - wins.”

 

With such an impeccable track record, expectations are high for the remainder of this season. Kenny has shown us he's not only healthy and confident – he's consistent. Every stride is a statement, every finish a reminder: this is an athlete at the height of his power, doing exactly what he was born to do. And as the season unfolds, Bednarek isn't just raising the bar—he’s becoming the standard. From one extraordinary season to the next, there's simply no stopping him.

Kung Fu Kenny came to conquer the track, and that is precisely what he's doing. This season has been nothing short of electrifying- and he’s just getting started. With his sights set on making Team USA at Nationals and capturing double gold at the World Championships, those who dare to compete with this fierce contender will face their toughest challenge yet.