Akani Simbine continued his blazing run of form with a dominant victory in the 100m at the Atlanta City Games, clocking a wind-assisted 9.86 seconds.
While the time won’t be suitable as the official world lead due to the tailwind, it marks another record in what an amazing season for Simbine has been. The 31-year-old has already claimed two Diamond League wins, a World Indoor medal, and led South Africa to 4x100m gold at the World Relays.
“It’s no pressure,” said Simbine after his win. “I get to come enjoy something that is no stress; just run and have fun. I wasn’t expecting that at all. Crazy.”
The race was expected to feature Olympic champion Noah Lyles, but the American withdrew shortly before the start due to an ongoing ankle issue. Simbine, undiscouraged, overcame a slow start before powering past Nigerian sprinter Udodi Onwuzurike, who finished second in 10.05 seconds.
Simbine’s official world lead remains his 9.90 from the Botswana Golden Grand Prix last month. With the World Championships in Tokyo looming in September, the South African star is keeping his focus.
“I’m looking forward to going home, training and getting ready for September,” he said.
