Doha Debate - Can McLeod retain sprint hurdles crown?

Raymond Graham: Omar McLeod will be hoping to add another major title to his résumé by winning the men’s 110 metres hurdles for the second championship in a row, but this time around, it will be more difficult as it will be more competitive.

André Lowe: I don’t know if it was any less competitive the last time; this event is always very competitive. The difference is that he is not here as the favourite. However, he hasn’t lost an ounce of confidence, and he’ll need it as he faces a motivated Orlando Ortega and the consistent Sergey Shubenkov, as well as Grant Holloway.

RG: Shubenkov would have been a massive favourite coming into the championships, but his mishap in Rabat has derailed that somewhat. However, his last two runs have shown that he is in the mix big time, while Ortega and young Holloway will want to spoil the party.

AL: Shubenkov always brings it when it matters. He’s always in the conversation at the big meets, and more often than not, he lives up to and exceeds expectations. McLeod is the consummate champion, assured and confident and definitely loves a challenge, while Ortega has been good this season.

RG: McLeod is a big performer, and he did look good in the preliminary round, but changing his coach late in the season could affect his chances of winning. His camp is, however, on a roll, and that could motivate him to produce another special run.

AL: I won’t bet against McLeod at a championship. He takes responsibility and loves the challenge. He has improved since changing camps and is now more confident in his technique. He is running into form at the right time and will be hard to beat because of a combination of all those factors.

RG: This is one time I will bet against McLeod. For me, Shubenkov will be the one to beat. Ortega always fails to deliver at the big moment, but all this could change now. However, he and McLeod look set to fight it out for silver and bronze here, with him getting the slight edge over the defending champion.

AL: McLeod, Shubenkov, and then Holloway. I don’t trust Ortega; he will again disappoint.