Eliot Mahlase
Wayde Van Niekerk claimed South Africa’s first medal at the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Championships in Beijing after winning the 400m final.
The 23-year-old crossed the line in 43.48 seconds ahead of the US’ LaShawn Merritt.
Van Niekerk’s is the sixth-fastest time in the history in the 400m.
Minister of Sport Fikile Mbalula congratulated Van Niekerk on his win.
“Despite the problems we face as a country, South Africa has many men and women who continue to imbue us with a sense of determination and will to do more, Wayde van Niekerk is one of those people. I congratulate and thank him for reminding us that we are truly a winning nation. Well done, thank you for making South Africa proud,” he said.
South African’s Wenda Nel finished seventh in the women’s 400m final with a time of 54.94.
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