Behind Andreas Almgren's relaxed exterior lies a confidence known as "duga". When talk turns to the Swedish squad, he is singled out as the most likely candidate for gold - alongside Armand Duplantis.
Almgren. Of course, the super talent Carmen Cernjul answers the question with lightning speed.
Andreas Almgren, who runs the 10,000 metres on Saturday evening, happily shoulders the responsibility.
“Feels damn good”
I'm one of those who should be up there. And I'm not the only one in the race who's going for it, there are many strong names. But I'm going to run to take the gold. There's no question about that, he says.
The confidence is based on a spring and summer where everything has gone smoothly. While many competitors have been plagued by injuries, the Swedish track and field star has pushed his limits calmly and steadily.
All the training I've done this summer has gone exactly as I wanted. No injuries, no colds, no unexpected stiff feelings. I've been able to do all the workouts I wanted and have very good times, so I feel ready. It feels really good, says Almgren.
The successes of recent years have also transformed the 31-year-old into one of the national team's brightest stars, with the bronze medal at the World Championships in Tokyo last summer being the big achievement. Gone are the days when he had to hustle his way into the big galas - now it's the organisers who call and ask. The attention and status are something he enjoys.
“People want to take pictures”
I like it, absolutely! Getting attention for something you're good at and like... I like running and I like talking about running. How can that be bad? If people come forward, just thank them and accept. It's really fun when you realize that you're inspiring others, says Almgren.
In Birmingham, it's no wonder: The running star from Sollentuna steps onto the track like a sought-after athlete - and he enjoys it.
"People actually come up sometimes and want to take a picture. I really like that," says Almgren.
