A new generation of sprint stars is emerging from Southern Africa. Led by the likes of Bayanda Walaza and Udeme Okon, these athletes are homegrown stars.
Their success challenges the idea that athletes must leave Africa to excel. With world-class times and Olympic medals, the likes of Bayanda Walaza are proving local training works.
Bayanda Walaza: Staying Loyal to South Africa
Bayanda Walaza made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics, winning silver in the 4x100m relay. Since then, he has continued to impress, running a personal best of 9.99 seconds in the 100m in 2025. Despite offers from U.S. colleges, he chose the University of Pretoria to stay close to his coach.
Walaza credits his success to South Africa’s training systems. He points to Akani Simbine as proof that athletes can thrive without moving abroad. His decision highlights growing confidence in African coaching and facilities.
“There were opportunities from outside [South Africa],” Walaza told ESPN. He went on to say: “There were a lot of [US colleges] that came up to me and said: ‘It will be a good opportunity for you to come this side.'”
“There were a lot of them, but I came to the decision that I’ll stay here in South Africa.
“South Africa has all the equipment that we need for people to be fast. We have fast people here. Even Akani Simbine – the best sprinter that we have in South Africa – never went to the USA.”
Udeme Okon: The Future of African Sprinting
Udeme Okon is another rising star from South Africa. The 400m specialist won gold at the 2024 World U20 Championships in Lima. Like Walaza, he is a homegrown rising star.
Okon works with coach Lyle Wentzel at the University of Johannesburg. He believes staying in South Africa will help his long-term career. His focus is on longevity, not just short-term success.
Why Southern African Sprinters Are Succeeding
Southern Africa is producing world-class sprinters at an unprecedented rate. Athletes like Walaza, Okon, and Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo are leading the charge. Their success comes despite fewer resources than U.S. or European programmes.
Coaches like Thabo Matebedi and Lyle Wentzel are key to this rise. They use innovative methods to maximise limited facilities. The results speak for themselves, with African sprinters now competing at the highest level.
The Mindset Driving Africa’s Sprint Revolution
Young African athletes are no longer content with being underestimated. Walaza and Okon both speak about proving doubters wrong. They want to show that Africa belongs among sprinting’s elite nations.
This mindset is fuelling record-breaking performances. More brands are starting to invest in African talent. With greater support, the continent could dominate global sprinting soon.
What’s Next for Walaza and Okon?
Walaza’s 9.99 in 2025 puts him among the world’s fastest young sprinters. He aims to break into the top tier alongside Simbine and Tebogo. Staying in South Africa gives him the stability to keep improving.
Okon’s long-term goal is to become a world champion. Like Walaza, he has options but everything he needs to succeed is in front of them.
Conclusion: Africa’s Sprinting Golden Age
Southern Africa is entering a golden age of sprinting. Athletes like Walaza and Okon are leading the charge. Their success proves that world-class speed can be developed at home.
With more investment, African sprinters could soon rival Jamaica and the U.S. The future looks bright for this new generation. Online sports betting enthusiasts should take notice—Africa’s sprint kings are here to stay.
