Prudence Sekgodiso isn’t afraid of big moments. Under the floodlights of the Marrakesh Diamond League meeting in Morocco on Sunday, the 22-year-old South African middle-distance runner delivered a performance that sent shockwaves through the athletics world. Not only did she win the women’s 800m race, but she did it in a blazing time of 1 minute, 57.26 seconds (1:57.26) – a world-leading mark and a new personal best.
The victory was more than just a win; it was a statement. Sekgodiso, already the second-fastest South African woman ever in the 800m behind the legendary Caster Semenya, announced her arrival on the global stage with a well-executed finish.
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“I didn’t expect to run so fast,” Sekgodiso admitted afterward, a hint of disbelief still lingering in her voice. “Winning was in my mind but not with such a fast time. It’s crazy fast.”
But beneath the surprise, there was a quiet confidence. “I am so proud of myself tonight,” she continued. “Achieving a world lead and a personal best is just amazing.”
This win wasn’t a stroke of luck. Sekgodiso’s talent has been simmering for years. A six-time national champion, she began collecting medals on the continental stage with a bronze at the 2018 African Youth Games. Gold at the 2019 African U18 Championships followed, and in 2022, she secured another bronze at the African Championships. However, the global stage remained elusive, with near misses at the 2022 World Championships and the Commonwealth Games.
This time, however, things were different. Sekgodiso wasn’t just competing; she was dominating. Her blistering pace in Marrakesh left seasoned competitors in her wake, a testament to the relentless training and unwavering focus that have become her hallmarks.
Yet, Sekgodiso remains grounded. While the world may be anointing her the next big thing, her goals for the upcoming Paris Olympics are refreshingly realistic. “For the Paris Olympics,” she reveals, “I will try to reach the final. I want to be in the big eight.”
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This isn’t a lack of ambition. It’s the quiet determination of an athlete who understands the journey, not just the destination. Reaching the Olympic final would be a phenomenal achievement for the young runner and a springboard for future dominance.
With the Paris Games just over two months away, Prudence Sekgodiso has thrown down the gauntlet. The world is watching, and South Africa is cheering. This is just the beginning for a young athlete who seems to thrive under pressure. One thing is certain: the world can expect to see Prudence Sekgodiso light up the track in Paris, and for many years to come.
Image: Marta Gorczyńska
