Udeme Okon signs with the University of Johannesburg

The 19-year-old, who is currently completing his matric at Florida High School in Roodepoort, has committed to studying at the University of Johannesburg next year.

Tipped as South Africa’s next big 400m talent following in the footsteps of Wayde van Niekerk and Zakhithi Nene, Okon is one of the most sought-after young athletes in global athletics.

Despite the international interest, he says relocating to the US is not part of his plans.

"I have never made that decision of going to USA, I've gotten the opportunities but I'm not looking into going to universities in the US. I don't think I can leave someone like my coach, someone that took me up from grassroots, putting me where I am now. Going to the US is not in my books, I can say," Okon said.

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The 4x400m relay world champion told the national broadcaster that he appreciates the top-class facilities at UJ and feels warmly welcomed by the university’s athletics management team.

"It's good facilities, I mean, the vibes here, the athletes that are here. You can learn a lot from athletes here at UJ. When I arrived here the first time, I was a bit scared. I'm a very introverted guy so the guys welcomed me here properly, even management, welcomed me as good because they knew my coach well. So, it was a nice experience, it's a very welcoming experience," he added.