The 2025 track season is proving to be electric, and Africa is right at the heart of it. In the latest world rankings for the top ten men’s 100m, four African sprinters have surged into the elite list and one of them is sitting at the very top.
Ghana’s Abdul-Rasheed Saminu has shocked the world with a stunning 9.86s, currently the fastest time in the world this year, the time also stands as a national record. The Ghanaian speedster shares the time with American Kenneth Bednarek but leads the list by virtue of head to head wins. Saminu’s rise has been nothing short of phenomenal, and with the World Championships looming, all eyes are on him as Africa’s leading contender for global gold.
South African sprint king Akani Simbine is in blazing form this year and seriously looking like a medal contenderat the world Championship, clocking 9.90s to secure the 3rd spot globally. A consistent presence in world finals, Simbine continues to fly the South African flag high, proving once again why he remains one of Africa’s most trusted names in the short sprint.
Rising star Bayanda Walaza, also from South Africa, has announced his arrival on the global stage with a sensational 9.94s. Ranked 6th in the world, the young speedster is quickly becoming a name to remember and a serious force behind Simbine in South Africa’s sprinting legacy.
Nigeria’s very own Kayinsola Ajayi rounds off the top ten with a powerful 9.95s performance. Currently ranked 10th, Ajayi’s inclusion in the elite club of sub 10 sprinters reinforces Nigeria’s place in the global sprint conversation.
With four Africans from Ghana, South Africa, and Nigeria in the top ten, the continent is not just participating but dominating the sprinting conversation. Abdul-Rasheed Saminu’s world leading time is symbolic of a new era, where African sprinters are no longer chasing, but setting the pace. As the season unfolds, the world will be watching but make no mistake, Africa is leading the charge.
