Every World Athletics Championships brings new excitement, but one thing remains constant: African athletes are always among the biggest stars. From distance-running dominance to new sprint sensations, the continent continues to produce world-class talent who not only chase medals but also inspire millions back home. As the championships approach, here are the Africans you need to keep an eye on.
In the sprints, Africa’s presence is no longer limited to one or two names. Ferdinand Omanyala of Kenya is one of the men to watch in the 100m. Known as Africa’s fastest man, Omanyala has consistently broken barriers for Kenyan sprinting, clocking sub-10 times and challenging the traditional dominance of Jamaica and the United States. His explosive start and fearless racing style make him a serious contender for a podium finish. South Africa’s Akani Simbine, an experienced championship performer, will also be looking to finally claim a global medal after several near misses.
The women’s sprints are just as exciting. Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith of Ivory Coast is a veteran sprinter who has remained one of the most consistent performers in the 100m and 200m. She has a habit of peaking during big championships and will be gunning for gold this time around. Keep an eye as well on Nigeria’s Favour Ofili, who has been steadily improving over 200m and could surprise the field with a breakthrough performance.
Africa’s true traditional stronghold remains the middle- and long-distance events. In the men’s 800m, Kenya’s Emmanuel Wanyonyi is a rising star. At just 20 years old, he already has a world medal to his name and the maturity to control races tactically. His compatriot Wyclife Kinyamal adds further depth to Kenya’s 800m power. Ethiopia’s Emmanuel Tura and Algeria’s Djamel Sedjati will also be in the mix, ensuring the two-lap event remains one of the most competitive on the schedule.
In the women’s 1500m and 5000m, all eyes will be on Faith Kipyegon, arguably the greatest female middle-distance runner in history. The Kenyan superstar has shattered world records and is chasing more gold medals to cement her legacy. Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay, known for her relentless front-running style, will be her toughest rival in both events. The battle between Kipyegon and Tsegay could be one of the highlights of the entire championships.
When it comes to the longer distances, Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda remains the man to beat in the men’s 10,000m. The world record holder will be aiming for yet another world title, but he will face stiff competition from Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi and Selemon Barega, who are hungry to bring the crown back to Addis Ababa.
Finally, in field events, South Africa’s Wayde van Niekerk is back in top form in the 400m, while Ese Brume of Nigeria is a strong medal favorite in the women’s long jump. Their performances will remind the world that Africa is not just about distance running.
This year’s World Athletics Championships promise fireworks, and African athletes are at the center of the storm. Whether in sprints, distance races, or field events, expect the green, gold, and red flags of Africa to fly high on the medal podium.
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