Earlier in the week, we wondered whether Taylor Knibb would win a WTCS title in her career. She is out of the running this year so the question concerned the totality of her career.
There are reasons to believe it will happen, just as there are reasons to suspect it might not. When put to TriStats readers, the sentiment was rather bearish when it came to Knibb’s WTCS prospects.
In total, 82% responded with the opinion that she will not win a WTCS title. A combination of factors, such as diverse racing commitments, greater prize money lying elsewhere and the strength of potential WTCS rivals, could prevent Knibb from succeeding over the course of a WTCS campaign.
Luck can also play an important role. To win, an athlete has to remain fit for a season and any injury or mishap can compromise a tilt at the tile.
Meanwhile, the remaining 18% believed that she will win a world title at some point in her career.
As a two-time World Junior champion and as a World U23 champion, Knibb has been marked out for success throughout her time in the sport. She is a double WTCS race winner and has medalled in each of the past three WTCS seasons. In 2022, she also placed 3rd in the overall standings so has been close to the title.
It remains to be seen what path Knibb will choose. She could win the world title or equally she could extend her forays into the middle and long distance scenes where she has the potential to dominate for years to come.
As one of the most exciting athletes in the sport, whatever she does next will be worth the watch.
