Bayanda Walaza Wins Sprint Double at World University Games

• Bayanda Walaza clinched a sprint double at the World University Games in Germany, winning gold in both the 100m and 200m events
• The 19-year-old World U20 champion clocked 20.63 seconds in the 200m final, continuing his rise as South Africa's next sprinting star
• Walaza chose Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) over UP, citing strong support and a community-focused environment

South African sprint star Bayanda Walaza continued his exceptional form at the World University Games in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany, securing a sprint double and adding another accolade to his growing list of achievements.

The 19-year-old reigning World U20 champion added the 200m gold medal to his tally earlier this week, clocking an impressive 20.63 seconds.

Walaza, who previously won the same race at the 2024 World U20 Championships in Peru, edged out Spain’s Adrià Medero with a lightning-fast start and dominant pace to secure the victory.

His achievement marks South Africa’s first University sprint double since Anaso Jobodwana accomplished the feat 12 years ago.

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How did South Africans react to his latest wins?

@Sevhic_:

"He has the ugliest style of running — but it's effective."

@AnaTorresA:

"That time is slow."

@KeketsoLetooane:

"A star is born."

@SQ_Gunner:

"Let’s go, booooy! 🇿🇦🔥🙌"

@uNqubekoo:

"Congratulations @OfficialTeamRSA — Bayanda is practically taking everything at his disposal."

@Vuma_xfctr:

"👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 The future is bright!"

@Honorabledawgs:

"The boy is going — like gone."

@SabeloMkabela:

“I believe he’ll get on the Olympic podium in the 100m in the coming years.”

With his eyes now set on the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo and a full Diamond League season, Walaza’s star continues to rise, and the entire nation is taking notice.

TUT secures Bayanda Walaza’s signature

Walaza’s university decision was highly anticipated, with institutions such as the University of Pretoria (UP) expressing interest in the young athlete. However, he ultimately committed to the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).

Explaining his choice, Walaza said TUT felt more like a community, offering a balance between academic and athletic excellence. He noted that while UP outlined specific expectations, TUT demonstrated genuine interest in supporting his overall development:

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“I felt like it was different from UP because at UP, they told me that I need to do this and that. TUT showed that they truly wanted me to be there and they are doing everything to make sure I get what I need.”

SA beams with pride as Walaza bags second gold

Briefly News previously reported on Walaza’s meteoric rise. The Curro Hazeldean student made headlines after winning silver at the Olympics, and now, he continues to shine on the global stage.

Walaza clinched his second gold medal at the World U20 Athletics Championships, taking first place in the 200m sprint, adding to the 100m title he had already secured. His back-to-back wins have cemented his status as one of South Africa’s most promising young athletes.

With the support of his family, sponsors like Curro, and institutions like TUT, Bayanda Walaza is not just running races, he’s chasing greatness.

Source: Briefly News