CAN ANYONE BEAT BOLT?

Christian Coleman’s career record against Usain Bolt: 0-0. The University of Tennessee product who recently turned pro could actually end up in very rare company — a sprinter with a winning mark against the Jamaican great. That would involve Coleman pulling off the improbable — impossible? — in Bolt’s final 100-meter race at the world championships. The semifinals and final are Saturday. Coleman finished in 10.01 seconds Friday, the second-fastest time behind another Jamaican, Julian Forte (9.99). And while Bolt won his heat, his time of 10.07 was eighth overall.

THE TOP CONTENDER:

The 35-year-old Justin Gatlin made a tactical mistake at the 2015 world championships in Beijing, going into his lean too early as Bolt sneaked past him by 0.01 seconds. Gatlin also finished runner-up to Bolt at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics. “I feel good. I feel confident,” Gatlin said of his chances this time. “We’ve been working on some things, making sure our race pattern is a little different than before.”

Yohan Blake’s request is simple: Don’t call him “The Beast” anymore. Blake has the distinction of being the last sprinter to win a 100-meter gold at the worlds other than Bolt. Blake captured the title at the 2011 world championships after a false start by Bolt led to a disqualification. Blake has been slowed by injuries in recent seasons and finished second in his heat Friday

THE OTHER JAMAICAN:

behind Abdul Hakim Sani Brown of Japan.

Forte tied his personal best in posting the evening’s top time. A confidence boost? “I’ve always been confident,” Forte said. “I just kept it at its high level.”

THE OTHER, OTHER JAMAICAN: THE LONG SHOT, PART I:

Ever heard of Chijindu Ujah? The British sprinter may not win, but could be in the mix for a medal. He won the 100 a month ago in a Diamond League race in London.

THE LONG SHOT, PART II:

Akani Simbine of South Africa did just enough to advance Friday. He did beat the likes of Gatlin and De Grasse during a Diamond League meet in Doha in May.