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South African sprinter Akani Simbine has achieved a remarkable milestone in the world of athletics, breaking Usain Bolt’s long-standing 100 meters record. On April 19, 2025, Simbine ran an incredible 9.90 seconds at the Botswana Golden Grand Prix in Gaborone, becoming the first athlete to clock sub-10 seconds in the 100 meters for 11 consecutive years. This performance not only secured him victory in the event but also put him ahead of both Usain Bolt and AsafaPowell, two of the sport’s most iconic figures. His victory was a statement of his enduring dominance in sprinting and the culmination of years of consistent performances at the highest level of competition.
Simbine’s victory in Botswana was a showcase of his speed, skill, and experience, as he led the race from start to finish. With a wind reading of -1.4 meters per second, the South African sprinter outpaced his competition, finishing ahead of Kenya’s Ferdinand Omanyala, who clocked 10.00 seconds, and his fellow countryman Retshidisitswe Mlenga, who finished third with a time of 10.15 seconds. Simbine’s time of 9.90 seconds has been touted as the fastest 100-meter run of the season, adding another chapter to his illustrious career.
Since 2015, Akani Simbine has consistently broken the 10-second barrier, a feat that has set him apart from other sprinters. This consistency has made him one of the most reliable sprinters on the global stage. Notably, Simbine set the South African national record of 9.82 seconds at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he also helped secure a silver medal in the 4x100m relay. His ability to remain competitive year after year is a testament to his dedication and commitment to the sport. His historic 9.90-second performance further solidifies his reputation as one of the world’s premier sprinters.
Looking forward, Simbine’s achievement at the Botswana Golden Grand Prix places him in a strong position for upcoming international competitions. As one of the top contenders in global athletics, he is expected to continue dominating in the 2025 season, with eyes on events such as the World Athletics Championships. His remarkable ability to maintain peak performance over the years, along with his consistent sub-10-second times, ensures that Akani Simbine’sname will continue to be synonymous with sprinting excellence for years to come.
