Bayanda Walaza vows to come back stronger after missing World Championships

By Charles Baloyi
23rd October 2025

World Under-20 100m and 200m champion Bayanda Walaza says he will come back stronger after missing the World Senior Championships in Tokyo due to injury.

The 19-year-old Tshwane University of Technology student was forced to withdraw just a week before the event after injuring his knee during the final leg of the Diamond League in Brussels.

Walaza had qualified for both the 100m and 200m and was also expected to play a key role in the 4x100m relay team, but was replaced by Sinesipho Dambile.

Coached by Thabo “Coach T” Matibedi, Walaza has since recovered from surgery and is already focused on making a strong comeback.

“Missing the World Championships was a big blow, but that’s life. I’ve recovered and accepted what happened—it just wasn’t my time. Maybe I wasn’t ready for the big stage yet,” he told SABC Sport.

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Walaza said he is using the setback as motivation for 2026.

“Bouncing back is an understatement. I’ll come back and make a big statement—mark my words.

Everyone will remember my name after next year,” he declared confidently.

The young sprinter had a breakthrough season, clocking 9.99 seconds in the 100m to become the first South African to qualify for the World Championships, and also running under 20 seconds in the 200m.

His early-season form saw him win several local meets and impress in Europe before the injury ended his campaign.

“It was an exceptional year. I enjoyed racing against seniors and winning big races. Now it’s all about training hard and getting back to my best,” he said.

As the season winds down, Walaza plans to take things easy and focus on recovery.

“It’s the off-season now, so I’m relaxing a bit. No pressure—just good vibes, some ice cream, and a happy mindset before I get back to work,” he added with a smile.

His training partners Gift Leotlela and Sinesipho Dambile also had a great season, reaching the 100m and 200m finals at the World Championships in Tokyo.

Walaza said he was proud of them and their team’s strong performances this year. He believes their training group will be one to watch at the Commonwealth Games in Scotland next year.

“Next season will be special for me and the whole group. We’re working hard, following our coach’s plan, and getting ready to make an impact in the athletics world,” he said.