Justin Gatlin says he was turned away in Beijing

World-leading sprinter Justin Gatlin flew home from Beijing on Tuesday claiming organizers of Wednesday’s upcoming World Challenge meet there did not want him to compete. Gatlin was hoping to race the headlining 100m at the meet, being held in the city where this summer’s world championships will be held.

Arriving in Beijing, Gatlin claims to have told organizers he was suffering from cramped muscles, but still expected to be able to race.

“It’s crazy. I have no idea what they were thinking,” the American sprinter told Reuters, dismissing the possibility his tainted reputation may have played a factor. “I think they thought I wasn’t man enough and I might pull up in the race, or not finish it and then still ask for money.”

“But I’m not a man like that. I’m not the kind of guy to cheat people of their money or let the fans down.”

Gatlin, who won the 2004 Olympic 100m before serving his second doping ban, has gained a notorious reputation in recent years after returning to sprinting seemingly without missing a step during his drug ban. Many track and field fans and athletes have spoken out about his return to the sport and believe meets should not allow him to race.

Last Friday Gatlin raced to a 9.74 second 100m result, the fastest time run since 2012 and the second fastest 100m result ever before August. The only quicker early-season time was run in 2008 by Usain Bolt, the year he first broke the world record. The time is a personal best for the 33-year-old.