Usain Bolt tests positive for COVID-19, Jamaican official says

Kingston, Jamaica: Jamaica's Minister of Health says legendary sprinter Usain Bolt has tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

Minister Christopher Tufton said Bolt was aware of the results and his recent contacts were being traced.

"It is now public knowledge that Mr Bolt has tested positive. He has been formally notified, I'm told by the authorities,'' Tufton said. "It triggers an approach to questioning, interrogation if you will, which we follow through with contact tracing."

Bolt said on social media on Monday that he was awaiting the result of a coronavirus test and was quarantining himself as a precaution.

The 34-year-old retired sprinter who won gold in the 100 and 200 meters at the last three Olympics posted a video on social media to explain the situation.

"Good morning everybody. Just waking up. Like everybody, checked social media and saw that social media says I'm confirmed of COVID-19," he said. "I did a test Saturday, because I work. I'm trying to be responsible, so I'm going to stay in and stay here for my friends."

Bolt, who appeared to be lying in bed in the video, said he has no symptoms.

"Just to be safe, I'll quarantine myself and just take it easy," he said.

Coronavirus has caught record-breaking sprinter Usain Bolt. Credit: AP

Jamaica has had fewer than 1700 cases, a relatively low number in a country of nearly 3 million.

On the track, Bolt was known for his poses — his "Lighting Bolt" became iconic — and his post-race celebrations. His speed and charisma made his sport can't-miss viewing whenever he lined up in the blocks.

Bolt set the world records in the 100 and 200 meters at the 2009 world championships in Berlin. He retired in 2017.

AP