Wayde van Niekerk relieved to end medal drought with 4x400m bronze

Van Niekerk, who missed out on a star-studded individual Men's 200m final, etched his name deeper into SA athletics history as they ended an eight-year Champiomship medal drought for Team SA in Tokyo.

It was his first time on a podium at a major event since the London Olympics in 2017, when he claimed gold in the Men's 400m and silver in the Men's 200m, making his achievement with his countrymen all the more special.

“People have been talking about ending the medal drought since we crossed the line. “Does it inspire me? That’s a tough question. I just want to celebrate this moment and let it sink in," Van Niekerk told SABC Sport. 

"I’ve been questioning my 400m journey for a few years now, but to be part of this team is an honour. I fought hard for them, and I’m grateful.”

READ: Du Plessis devastated after fourth-place finish at World Champs

Asked whether this marked the end of his professional career, the 33-year-old said he would take time before deciding if he will continue until the 2027 World Championships in Beijing, where he famously won his first world title a decade ago.

Meanwhile, Nene, who ran the anchor leg, said the bronze softened the blow of missing out on an individual medal after he finished fifth in the Men's 400m final. 

“Yes, somewhat. But this was another main event, and we delivered on our relay objectives,” he said.

Okon, the youngest member of the team, revealed how difficult the conditions were. 

“I ran the back straight with water all over my glasses – I couldn’t see anything, not even Wayde.," he added.

Pillay, who led off the race, summed up the collective relief. 

“It’s still sinking in. This was a complete team effort, and whatever happens next, South Africa has a strong relay squad for the future," he concluded.