Despite being the world record holder for the 400m race, Wayde van Niekerk has decided to only race the 200m at the upcoming Olympics in Paris.
The decision comes after Van Niekerk qualified for the 400m with a time of 44.08 seconds, the fifth-fastest among all international qualifiers.
Van Niekerk, who has been struggling with injuries since recovering from a long-term knee injury, has decided against racing several 400m races to avoid another injury.
He missed the 4x400m final at the World Relays in the Bahamas in May.
While Van Niekerk is known for his 400m achievements, including two world titles and an Olympic gold medal, he is also a strong 200m sprinter.
He previously held the South African national 200m record with a personal best of 19.84 seconds and won a silver medal in the 200m at the 2017 World Championships in London.
South Africa has five athletes who have qualified for the 200m event, but only three spots are available. This means some athletes will need to be sidelined for Van Niekerk to secure a place.
Shaun Maswanganyi and Benjamin Richardson, both qualified for the 100m and 200m, may focus on the shorter sprint, which would open a spot for Van Niekerk.
He could be selected ahead of Luxolo Adams and Sinesipho Dambile.
If Van Niekerk competes in the 400m, he must race the 4x400m relay, according to World Athletics rules. Competing in the 200m, however, allows him to choose between the 4x100m and 4x400m relays.
Compiled by Staff Writer
Pictured above: Wayde van Niekerk.
Source: X
