Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo achieved a landmark victory in the Olympic 200 meters, becoming the first African to win this event at the Games.
Tebogo’s remarkable performance upstaged American sprinter Noah Lyles’ aspirations for a sprint double in Paris. Lyles, who appeared in the warm-up area wearing a mask, disclosed after the race that he had tested positive for COVID-19.
Despite his illness, Lyles competed, but ultimately Tebogo’s stunning race took centre stage.
The night belonged to Tebogo, who ran a time that not only surpassed American rival Erriyon Knighton but also placed him fifth fastest in the all-time 200m list.
This victory marked Botswana’s first-ever Olympic gold medal. Reflecting on his achievement, Tebogo shared, “It was really a beautiful race for me. My coach told me to just finish the race healthy, and that’s all I could have wished for.”
Tebogo’s gold medal is particularly poignant, coming just months after the passing of his mother, Seratiwa. He dedicated his victory to her, noting that his running shoes bear her date of birth as a tribute.
“It’s basically me carrying her through every stride that I take inside the field,” he said, expressing gratitude for the motivation her memory provides. Tebogo took a month off from training and competition to mourn her loss, making his victory even more inspiring.
The final lacked the pre-race hype of the 100m, but it was no less thrilling. Lyles received a warm reception from the crowd, despite his COVID-19 diagnosis. He was drawn in lane five, with Tebogo in lane seven.
Lyles showed early promise but faltered in the home straight, allowing Tebogo to surge ahead and clinch gold. The American Fred Kerley secured silver, with Lyles finishing off the podium.
The race was a testament to Tebogo’s resilience and skill, as he calmly executed his strategy and made history for both himself and Botswana.
