USA's Justin Gatlin: 'I can raise the level of my displays'

USA sprinter Justin Gatlin has revealed that he feels in good shape after cruising through the 100m heats at the World Athletics Championships in Beijing.

The 33-year-old recorded the fastest time in the heats by winning his race in 9.83s to ease into the semi-finals of the competition.

Gatlin believes that he is more than capable of raising the level of his performance as the event intensifies.

"I went out there and ran the first half of my race really well. I feel good," Gatlin told BBC Sport.

"Bolt did the same thing in 2012. He raced slower in the first round, picked it up in the semis and crushed it in the final."

Gatlin will race in his semi-final later today.