History-Maker Ajayi Finishes Sixth in World Championships 100m Final — Paves the Way for a New Era in Nigerian Sprinting

 Tokyo, Japan — Nigerian sprint sensation Kayinsola Ajayi has etched his name into Nigerian athletics history after finishing sixth in the men’s 100 metres final at the 2025 World Athletics Championships. His performance not only marked a personal milestone but also broke an 18-year drought for Nigeria in the 100m final at the world stage. 

A Sprint into History

Ajayi had already turned heads earlier in the competition when he powered through his semi-final heat in 9.93 seconds, securing automatic qualification for the final. That time, though just behind the heat winner, reaffirmed his place among the world’s elite sprinters. 

His advancement was especially significant given that no Nigerian man had made the final of the World Championships 100m since Olusoji Fasuba in 2007. 

The Final Showdown

In the final, Ajayi held his own, facing off against Olympic champions, defending world titleholders, and seasoned sprinters from around the globe. Though he didn’t reach the podium, finishing sixth still represents a huge leap forward. The experience alone — racing at this level under intense pressure — will serve as fuel for his future. 

Beyond the Finish Line

• At 21 years old, Ajayi’s potential is still unfolding. His performances in Tokyo show he’s not intimidated by world-class competition.  
• He now has a personal best of 9.88 seconds in the 100m, putting him ever closer to national records and the upper echelons of sprinting globally.  
• His breakthrough has sparked pride among Nigerians and renewed hopes that the country can produce sprinting champions on the world stage.  

Looking Ahead

Ajayi’s journey is far from over. With this experience under his belt, the expectations now grow: refining his speed, improving his explosive starts, and bringing consistency at the highest level. If he continues this trajectory, medals at future World Championships — or even the Olympics — may no longer seem out of reach.

Conclusion

Finishing sixth may not be first, but for Ajayi, it’s a transformative result. He’s not just running races — he’s rewriting expectations for himself and for Nigeria. As the cheers and congratulations pour in, the sprinting world also watches closely: it looks like a new champion is climbing up.