In a stunning turn of events at the Paris Olympics, Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo claimed gold in the 200 meters, becoming the first African to win the event and setting a new African record with a time of 19.46 seconds.
Tebogo’s triumph also overshadowed American sprinter Noah Lyles’ bid for a sprint double, as Lyles, who was battling Covid, finished third.
Tebogo, just 21 years old, eased up at the finish line, still managing to clock a time that not only secured him gold but also placed him fifth on the all-time list for the 200 meters. American Kenny Bednarek took silver with a time of 19.62 seconds, while Lyles, despite his efforts, crossed the line in 19.70 seconds to take bronze.
Lyles, who had been seen wearing a mask in the warm-up area, revealed post-race that he had tested positive for Covid-19 early on Tuesday morning. “I’ve had better days,” Lyles admitted. “I woke up in the middle of the night feeling chills, aching, and a sore throat. I knew it was more than just being sore from the 100. We tested and unfortunately, it came up positive.”
Despite the challenges, the night belonged to Tebogo. His gold medal is Botswana’s first-ever Olympic gold, and he has become the first African to win the 200 meters title since South Africa’s Reggie Walker in 1908. Tebogo’s performance also helped him surpass American Erriyon Knighton to become the fifth fastest 200-meter runner in history.
Tebogo dedicated his win to his late mother, Seratiwa, who passed away in May. “It’s basically me carrying her through every stride that I take inside the field,” Tebogo said. His running shoes bear her date of birth as a tribute. “It gives me a lot of motivation. She’s watching up there, and she’s really, really happy.”
The final, held in the packed Stade de France, lacked the pre-race hype of the 100 meters but was filled with drama. Lyles, the reigning 100-meter champion, received a warm reception from the crowd but was yellow-carded for breaking the starting block with his exuberant showboating.
In contrast, Tebogo appeared calm and collected. As the race commenced, Lyles, Tebogo, and Bednarek rounded the bend well, but Lyles struggled to maintain his position. Tebogo, in lane seven, was in complete control, making a brushing-off gesture as he crossed the finish line.
Bednarek, reflecting on the race, acknowledged Tebogo’s outstanding performance: “I didn’t put the best race down, but Tebogo ran a really good race.” Lyles, who had hoped for a double victory, was left to settle for bronze, his plans thwarted by both the competition and his health.
Tebogo’s victory is a historic moment for Botswana and a poignant reminder of the athlete’s resilience and dedication.
