Michael Johnson of the United States was the clear favorite, having won the last two world championships. His countryman Butch Reynolds had come in second both times, as well as having won silver in the 1988 Olympics.
Michael Johnson of the United States stood out as the top contender, having secured back-to-back world championship titles. His fellow American, Butch Reynolds, had finished runner-up in both instances and also won a silver medal at the 1988 Olympics.