T20 World Cup Ambassador Usain Bolt Foresees Cricket’s Growth in USA
Usain Bolt, the ambassador for this year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, is optimistic about the future of cricket in America. He believes that co-hosting the World Cup and the sport’s return to the Olympics in 2028 will significantly contribute to its prosperity.
Bolt, a Jamaican native who grew up playing cricket before transitioning to athletics, has a special interest in the event. His cricket coach in high school encouraged him to try track and field events, which eventually led to his illustrious career in athletics.
As the ambassador for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Bolt shares his passion for cricket, his cricketing memories, and his expectations for the upcoming event in the West Indies and USA.
Bolt, a close friend of West Indies cricket legend Chris Gayle, is excited to be part of the tournament, which will take place in the USA and Caribbean from June 1-29.
“I am thrilled to be an ambassador for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup,” Bolt told 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. I look forward to bringing my energy and enthusiasm to the World Cup and contributing to the growth of cricket globally.”
Something Out Of This World is coming this June!
Bolt anticipates a vibrant party atmosphere in the Caribbean, renowned for its dancing, music, and high-energy ambiance. The 37-year-old is also eager to witness the impact of cricket’s first major venture into the American market.
As a fan of American sports, Bolt believes cricket has the potential to thrive in the USA. He sees a promising future for the sport, particularly if the T20 World Cup proves successful.
“America believes a lot in sport and high intensity and for me to get into that market is big,” Bolt suggested. “When they follow a sport, they follow a sport properly and they go all in and I feel like if they can crack into it, they will get into it the right way. If we bring energy like I know we will for the T20 (World Cup) it is going to be wonderful.”
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Trophy Tour 2024 wraps up in the USA
Bolt also foresees further progress in 2028 when cricket returns to the Summer Olympics for the first time since 1900. He emphasizes the significance of winning a gold medal, citing the example of NBA players who value their Olympic victories as much as their NBA titles.
“That is how big (important) getting a gold medal is. 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.”