Inspired by Bolt, Van Niekerk Etches Name Among the Greats

Published by IAAF on August 15, 2016

It was the greatest moment in Wayde van Niekerk’s life, but he can’t even remember it. On Monday night in Rio, the 24-year-old unleashed one of the most unforgettable performances in Olympic history, though when he tried to think back on the race, he comes up blank.

“I’d love to give you the long testimony,” said van Niekerk, “but I don’t remember a thing. I don’t even think I was in that race; that’s how unreal it was.”

The South African had entered the race as one of three title contenders alongside Kirani James and Lashawn Merritt, but he blitzed his rivals – and Michael Johnson’s world record of 43.18 – by powering around the track in 43.03.

No one saw it coming, apart, that is, from the man most people had come to the Olympic Stadium to see on Monday night.