Simbine, Sekgodiso lead SA charge at Diamond League Final ahead of World Championships

JOHANNESBURG - The best athletes on earth are set to descend on Zurich’s Letzigrund Stadium for the Wanda Diamond League Final, where they will battle it out for the crown over two days.

Following the completion of 14 league meetings in the series, six South African athletes will compete against global stars such as Noah Lyles, Julien Alfred, Mondo Duplantis and Femke Bol, all aiming for the coveted Diamond Trophy.

“We are proud to see six athletes at the Diamond League Final this week. Their qualification for such a prestigious stage is proof of their hard work, discipline, and consistency throughout the season. This is an excellent opportunity to test themselves against the world’s best and to measure their progress ahead of the World Championships in Tokyo next month,” said Athletics South Africa president James Moloi.

The first six Diamond League champions will be crowned at a street event on Zurich’s Sechseläutenplatz on Wednesday, while another 26 titles will be decided at the Weltklasse Zürich on Thursday.

South Africa’s sprinting hopes will be carriedby national record-holder Akani Simbine, former Olympic semifinalist Shaun Maswanganyi, and junior sensation Bayanda Walaza in the men’s 100m.

“Let our athletes be reminded that they must remain focused, manage themselves wisely, and not allow the pressure of competing against top-class athletes to distract them from their ultimate goal. We have full confidence that they will represent South Africa with pride, determination, and the spirit of true champions,” Moloi added.

In the women’s events, world indoor champion Prudence Sekgodiso will contest the 800m, Olympic semifinalist Zeney van der Walt will feature in the 400m hurdles, and Olympic silver medallist Jo-Ane van Dyk (née du Plessis) will compete in the javelin throw. In addition, Rogail Joseph will line up in the women’s 400m hurdles B race on the pre-programme, although she will not be contesting a Diamond League title.

National 400m champion Zakithi Nene had also qualified for the final but will not compete due to injury.

The showcase comes just two weeks before the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

Schedule of SA athletes:

1. 45pm: Women’s javelin throw – Jo-Ane van Dyk
2. 27pm: Men’s 100m – Simbine, Walaza, Maswanganyi
3. 35pm: Women’s 400m hurdles – Van der Walt
4. 09pm: Women’s 800m – Sekgodiso