Akani Simbine’s remarkable form continues as he wins 100m in Atlanta

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In a dazzling display of speed that has become his trademark this season, South African sprinter Akani Simbine claimed victory in the men’s 100m at the Atlanta City Games, stopping the clock at 9.86 seconds.

While his performance was wind-aided and thus won’t be recognised as the fastest time of the year, it nevertheless reflects his exceptional form as he approaches a busy summer of track and field.

Simbine’s triumph in Atlanta adds to a string of impressive achievements this season. The 2025 campaign has seen him secure victories in both 100m Diamond League events, earn a medal at the World Indoor Championships, and anchor Team South Africa to gold in the 4x100m World Relays. These accomplishments have firmly established him as the fastest man on the planet at present.

“It’s no pressure. I get to come enjoy something that is no stress; just run and have fun. I wasn’t expecting that [time] at all. Crazy,” Simbine enthused after his race.

However, Simbine was surprised to find himself without the fierce competition of reigning Olympic champion Noah Lyles, who had been expected to run alongside him. Lyles pulled out of the event due to a “tight ankle,” a condition that has hampered his performance in recent weeks.

Despite this setback, Simbine’s season remains stellar, with his previous time of 9.90 seconds from the Botswanan Golden Grand Prix still standing as the official world lead for 2025.

Simbine started the race slightly slower but quickly found his rhythm past the 50-metre mark, pulling well ahead of Nigeria’s Udodi Onwuzurike, who finished second with a time of 10.05 seconds.

As the dust settles in Atlanta, Simbine has expressed his eagerness for the upcoming competitions, particularly eyeing the World Championships set to take place in Tokyo in September. “I’m looking forward to going home, training and getting ready for September,” he said, suggesting that he is focused on building upon his successes.

Also gracing the track was South Africa’s own Wayde van Niekerk, the men’s 400m world record holder, who made his seasonal debut. Van Niekerk finished a commendable third in the men’s 200m with a time of 20.03 seconds.

With Simbine and van Niekerk both showing promising form, the South African athletics team is poised to make a significant impact as the season progresses, leading up to the World Championships and beyond.