The Caribbean sprinting powerhouse of Jamaica celebrated a long-awaited return to the top of men’s sprinting as Oblique Seville clinched gold in the 100 metres final at the World Athletics Championships (WAC) in Tokyo.
Crossing the line in a dazzling 9.77 seconds, Seville not only set a new personal best but also revived the nation’s sprinting pride, last felt a decade ago when Usain Bolt reigned supreme. Kishane Thompson completed a Jamaican one-two with silver at 9.82 seconds, while the United States star Noah Lyles settled for bronze in 9.89 seconds.
The victory marks Jamaica’s first world men’s 100m crown since Bolt’s 2015 heroics in Beijing. Bolt himself was in attendance, passionately cheering from the stands as the Jamaican sprinters carried the nation’s colours back to the pinnacle.
“It’s an excellent feeling,” Seville declared. “The last time a Jamaican got the title was in 2015, and that was Usain Bolt. I feel really amazing and excited that the gold is coming home to Jamaica. I have proved that I am a true competitor, that I have the determination of a champion.”
The path to victory was not straightforward. Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo, an Olympic silver medallist, suffered a devastating disqualification for a false start. The setback reduced the field to seven men, heightening the drama of the showdown.
When the race restarted, Thompson flew out of the blocks and briefly held the lead. But Seville, showing poise and improved finishing speed, surged in the last stretch to seize victory, leaving Lyles with too much ground to cover despite his renowned late charge.
Fans inside the National Stadium erupted as Bob Marley’s “Buffalo Soldier” played, with Jamaican supporters dancing and waving flags. Seville, overwhelmed with joy, tore open his sprint suit in a triumphant gesture.
Bolt, now retired but still influential, had earlier predicted a Jamaican 1-2 finish. His faith in Seville and Thompson proved accurate, symbolizing the resurgence of the nation’s sprinting heritage.
SEO Tags: Jamaica athletics, Oblique Seville 100m, Tokyo World Championships, Usain Bolt legacy, Noah Lyles defeat
0 Comments