Akani silences doubters after questions about his mid-season form; he reclaims his shine with a second-place finish in the men’s 100 m at Zurich’s Diamond League final.
Zurich, Switzerland (29 August 2025)-The South African flag just never seems to rest, and once again, it was Akani Simbine who carried it proudly across the finish line.
In a 100m final packed with drama, Akani reminded the world why he is still the heartbeat of South African sprinting. Many had started to whisper that his best days might be behind him, after a string of performances that did not quite match the performances we had come to expect. But on this stage, under the brightest lights, he silenced the doubts by stepping onto the podium.
What made the moment even more special is that South Africa had not one, but three sprinters in the final. Bayanda Walaza’s campaign ended in heartbreak as he pulled up clutching what looked like a hamstring injury, while Shaun Maswanganyi held his own against the world’s fastest men. Their presence alone was a reminder of how strong South African sprinting has become.
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The Diamond League final also brought other encouraging moments for Team South Africa. Jo-Ane du Plessis kept her strong season going with a third-place finish in the javelin (62.26m), adding to her Paris 2024 silver medal. Rising middle-distance star Prudence Sekgodiso tested herself in a stacked 800m final, crossing the line sixth in 1:58.57, while Zeney van der Walt fought hard in the 400m hurdles, finishing eighth in 56.90 against a world-class field.
But the night belonged to Akani. His composure and relentless drive proved that he has not lost his flair. Just writing a fresh chapter in a career that continues to inspire. For the fans back home, this can be about belief. Belief that resilience pays off. And the belief that South Africa belongs among the world’s best.
Once again, Akani lifted the nation, and once again, the South African flag proudly refused to rest.
Sources: Team South Africa / Olympics
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