Akani Simbine ran a mind-blowing Anchor leg to beat USA and help South Africa clinch the 4 x 100m relay world title on Sunday.
South Africa pulled off a stunning upset at the 2025 World Athletics Relays in China on Sunday, storming to victory in the men’s 4x100m final as Akani Simbine delivered a flawless anchor leg to outrun the United States and claim gold.
The quartet of Bayanda Walaza, Sinesipho Dambile, Bradley Nkoana, and Simbine clocked a world-leading 37.61 seconds, edging out a strong American side that featured Courtney Lindsey, Kenneth Bednarek, Kyree King, and Brandon Hicklin. The USA settled for silver in 37.66 seconds, their season's best, while Canada completed the podium in 38.11.
It was the final changeover that proved decisive. South Africa’s crisp baton transitions had them in the mix from the outset, but it was Simbine’s anchor — full of composure and explosive drive — that turned the heat on the Americans down the home stretch.
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The United States, had been the favorites going in and did not disappoint with their execution.
However, despite registering a season's best of 37.66, their slightly slower baton transitions compared to South Africa made the difference. The final leg turned into a head-to-head sprint, but Simbine held his form under immense pressure to give South Africa a historic win.
Canada took the bronze medal in 38.11 seconds, fielding a well-balanced team of Aaron Brown, Jerome Blake, Brendon Rodney, and Olympic champion Andre De Grasse. Their consistent exchanges kept them in contention throughout, but they lacked the finishing kick to challenge the top two.
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Japan finished fourth in 38.17 after another technically sound performance, while Italy came fifth in 38.20, spearheaded by Filippo Tortu on anchor.
Germany rounded out the finishers in sixth with a 38.92, but it was a disappointing evening for Poland and Great Britain, both of whom failed to complete their races due to baton mishaps.
For South Africa, this victory is not just a win—it’s a statement. With a mix of youth and experience, and with Simbine still delivering when it matters most, they now head into the World Championships with belief that they can challenge anyone. Their baton exchanges were sharp, their chemistry evident, and their closing strength unbeatable on the night.
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