KINGSTON, Jamaica — Retired sprint icon Asafa Powell has paid an emotional tribute to his longtime coach, Stephen Francis, following the legendary track mentor’s death.

Francis died late Saturday, one day after celebrating his 64th birthday.

READ: Stephen Francis, legendary Jamaican track coach, has died

In a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday, Powell said he was still struggling to come to terms with the loss.

“I still can’t believe this happened. I still can’t believe you’re gone. There’s so much I want to say, but somehow I’m lost for words. I’m still trying to process it all, and it’s hard to accept that you’re no longer here,” he wrote in the caption of a shared photo with Francis.

Reflecting on their more than two-decade relationship, Powell described Francis as much more than a coach, crediting him with changing the course of his life.

“My heart aches as I say goodbye to the man who saw in me what I couldn’t see in myself.  For over 20 years, my coach was a father, a brother, a friend. He brought me from the countryside from Charlemont High School to Kingston, held a dream when I had none, and taught me to believe in myself, told me I could break records.  I’m so grateful that I was a part of his dream and made it come true.”

Powell further thanked Francis for his unwavering belief, guidance and discipline throughout his career.

“Thank you for your guidance, your discipline, and for pushing me to become the athlete and the man that I am today. Some of my greatest moments of my career were possible because you saw something in me and never stopped believing. I will carry his spirit in every step I take. Your impact reaches far beyond the track. Your legacy will continue to live on, Jamaica’s story in track and field is forever richer because of you, and your impact will continue to inspire generations to come,” he wrote.

“Thank you, coach…I’ll never forget you. Thank you for believing in me before the world did,” Powell added.