KINGSTON, Jamaica — Veteran Jamaican sprinter Rusheen McDonald says he is feeling confident and focused as he prepares to line up at the Tokyo 2025 World Championships, which get underway this weekend.

Speaking on the eve of the championships, McDonald expressed belief in his current form despite not having achieved the automatic qualifying time ahead of the event.

He clocked 44.89 seconds earlier in the season and says he feels primed to run even faster.

“I’m confident right now,” he said. “Trials was a learning lesson for me. Now, if I run, I have to go straight to the line… I think I can go faster.”

The experienced sprinter, who has represented Jamaica at several World Championships and Olympic Games, noted that his years on the international circuit have taught him how to handle the pressures of major competition.

“I don’t worry about the people in the field…sometimes we put pressure on ourselves but now I understand the whole dynamic so I’m ready,” he explained.

McDonald described the team’s transition from their training camp in Tottori to Tokyo as smooth and okay, adding that he is staying focused despite differences in food and surroundings.

“The food is okay… Anywhere you go in the world, you have to just enjoy it. I just put my mind on the track and the training,” he said.

He is also expected to play a key role on Jamaica’s 4x400m relay squad, stating that he stands ready if selected.

“We have a good team so far… I’m just waiting on the management team to pick the side and I’m ready to go,” he said.

As one of the senior members of the team, McDonald also shared that he has been offering guidance to younger athletes, including first-time World Championships competitor Delano Kennedy.

“I motivate them every day… Sometimes they’re nervous but I say you have to stop focus on the nervous. When you go out there, it’s better. The crowd and everything, you have to get used to it,” he said.