There certainly won’t be a want for speed amongst Team SA at the 2025 World Athletics Championships, with the likes of 400m world record holder Wayde van Niekerk, three-time Olympic 100m finalist Akani Simbine and double World U20 champion Bayanda Walaza set to headline the African nation’s 49-strong squad at year’s most-anticipated athletics competition in Tokyo.
The speedy trio were amongst the 32 men and 17 women announced as entries by Athletics South Africa on Tuesday, 2 September, along with world indoor 800m champion Prudence Sekgodiso and javelin standout Jo-Ane du Plessis – a silver medallist at the Olympic Games Paris 2024.
While no specific medal target was set for the talented team featuring a mix of established stars and rising talents, hopes will be high for a strong showing in the Japanese capital.
Commenting on the announcement, Athletics South Africa President James Moloi stated, “This team reflects the dedication, resilience, and hard work of our athletes, coaches, and support staff, who have tirelessly prepared for this moment on both local and international stages.”
“Their selection is a recognition of excellence and a call to carry the South African flag with honour and pride.”
“We urge the athletes to remain focused, disciplined, and united as they take on the world’s best,” he continued, adding, “Championships of this calibre demand not only physical strength but also mental resilience, and we are confident that our team will rise to the occasion.”
Athletes from the Rainbow Nation will be especially eager to reverse their fate from the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, which saw Team SA leave the historic city empty-handed and without much fanfare.
However, it’s unlikely that’ll be the case this time, with star-studded relay line-ups – boosting three medals (two gold and one bronze) from the 2025 World Athletics Relays – set to complement the African nation’s individual event entries.
There’s also the small matter of Bayanda Walaza’s return from apparent injury at the 2025 Diamond League Final, as the 19-year-old phenom attempts to prove he has what it takes to best the likes of Olympic champion Noah Lyles.
And don’t forget about Wayde van Niekerk – the fastest man in history over 400 metres.
He’ll look to prove himself against the world’s best as well, transitioning from a full lap sprint to a half lap sprint in an attempt to snag global headlines once more at the 2025 World Athletics Championships.