They went to represent the country of South Africa in Tokyo, Japan, for the World Athletics Championships as they were playing for national pride.
A 32-year-old dedicated athlete, Van Niekerk, was able to win and bring back home a medal as proof that indeed he was at the top when meeting with all the national teams. He was given a medal from the World Championships.
“This time around I was exposed to the team element of this sport. The last few years I’ve really been trying to fight for fitness to get into this team and represent the country with them. We’ve been wanting this opportunity for a very long time now. It’s a pity we could not come home with that silver, or even the golden medal, but it really shows the reality of where we stand as track and field at this moment. You are standing with a solid group of individuals with so much potential and so much talent,” said Niekerk.
It is not the first time he has won — he won the 400m gold in Beijing in 2015 and also another 400m gold and 200m silver in London in 2017.
They arrived at OR Tambo International Airport on 23 September, which is located in Johannesburg, after finishing their competition in Japan. Their families, friends, and fans were so happy, together with their team leader, Van Vester.
They will continue to participate and grow together, as their next World Athletics Championships will take place in Beijing, China, in 2027.
Editor: Ntabe Tracy
