BEIJING:

FORMER WORLD 100m record holder Asafa Powell still stands to benefit big on the circuit - at least for now, according to his manager, Paul Doyle.

Powell, who in May lost his 9.74 second world-record tag to compatriot Usain Bolt (9.72), who also beat him for the Olympic 100m title on Saturday, is said to be in trouble to keep his Nike contract and command big money on the circuit.

However, Doyle, while saying he could not discuss Powell's Nike agreement as "it's personal", said things on the circuit should be okay as all his engagements were finalised before the Olympics.

"I cannot comment on the Nike situation because his contact has been kept confidential ... Nike is still supporting him," was all Doyle said when asked if the sporting goods company would amend Powell's contact.

Normally, top companies are looking for the best athletes and most times, if the athletes don't deliver, they are likely to be cut or have their contracts trimmed.

Powell, in his second attempt, failed to win an Olympic medal. He was also third at the World Championships last year in a disappointing performance.

As for getting into big races and commanding large appearance fees, Doyle said that was not a problem.

Accomplished athlete

"There are not going to be any problems in getting races that he wants, even appear-ance fees," said Doyle, while hinting that was because most of his post-Olympic agree-ments had been reached.

"He is a very accomplished athlete. This is one meet, though they say you are as good as your last meet ... right now he is not as good as he wants to be, but if he goes out there and runs 9.7 then he is right back up there," said Doyle.

"Asafa Powell is still Asafa Powell, one of the world's fastest men, so he's still going to be okay," Doyle concluded.

- Anthony Foster