Kanyinsola Ajayi has finished third in the Diamond League 100m final in Brussels, clocking 9.97 seconds to become the first Nigerian man to podium in the event's history. The 21-year-old, who turned professional this year, earned a $10,000 prize for his performance. He finished behind Jamaica's Oblique Seville, who won in 9.90s, and Cameroon's Emmanuel Eseme, who took second.
Ajayi entered the final as a wildcard but delivered his 16th sub-10-second run despite facing both the world and Commonwealth champions. This marks his second podium finish in a major competition during his debut senior season, following a bronze at the Commonwealth Games. Earlier in the season, Ajayi had defeated Seville twice, but the Jamaican claimed the Diamond League trophy with a dominant run in Brussels.
The sprinter, who holds Nigeria's national 100m record, will return to the United States after the season to resume his studies and prepare for the 2027 campaign.
Ajayi's podium finish comes despite entering the final as a wildcard, highlighting his ability to compete at the highest level. His consistent sub-10s runs against elite sprinters suggest he is more than a seasonal contender. As Nigeria's record holder, his decision to return to studies may shape how he balances athletics and education in the lead-up to 2027.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
