Zakithi Nene backs SA 4x400m relay team for podium finish in Tokyo
15th September 2025
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South African 400m champion Zakithi Nene believes the national 4x400m relay team has what it takes to finish on the podium at the World Senior Championships in Tokyo.
Nene, who helped the team to win gold at the World Relay Championships in China in May, is confident they can repeat that success on the global stage.
The KwaZulu-Natal athlete booked his spot in Tuesday’s semi-finals after winning his 400m heat on Sunday and is among the favourites to reach the final and challenge for an individual medal.
Speaking to SABC Sport, the 27-year-old praised the depth and quality within the relay squad, which includes Wayde van Niekerk, Lythe Pillay, Leendert Koekemoer, Gardeo Isaacs, and Udeme Okon.
“The depth, talent, and crop of athletes that we have suggest we can go out there and win a medal on the last day of the competition on Sunday 21 September,” Nene said.
“We’re feeding off each other’s energy, and the team spirit is very strong.”
Nene added that the coaches have the luxury of options, with every athlete capable of making the country proud.
“I have strong faith in the team. The whole squad is determined, and we are in a good space. The coach has a good headache because whoever gets selected on the day will do the job.”
At last year’s Paris Olympics, the 4x400m relay team – competing without an injured Van Niekerk – reached the final and broke the national record.
Nene believes that performance laid the foundation for what is now a growing relay culture in South Africa.
“We’ve been building since the Olympics,” he explained. “We know the US and Botswana will be tough, but we are ready. People should watch us with optimism and support us because that energy fuels us.”
The men’s 4x400m relay final is scheduled for 21 September, and Nene is confident South Africa will be in the mix for a medal.
Nene, who regained his 400m national title at this year’s championships in the North West, is confident of securing his first individual 400m medal and aims to return home with two medals by the end of the nine-day competition.
