'Never neglect your country' - Bayanda Walaza sends succinct message to young South Africans amid new trend of nationality switch

After another resounding victory at the 2025 World University Games in Rhine-Ruhr, sprint sensation Bayanda Walaza has delivered a clear message to young South Africans regarding the recent trend of athletes switching nationalities.

The 19-year-old stormed to the 100m title in 10.16s (-0.7) to defeat Thailand's Puripol Boonson in 10.22s, while Japan’s Hiroki Yanagita won the bronze medal in 10.23s.

Walaza's performance was a follow-up to his highly impressive season, which has seen him run under the sub-11s mark twice, made his Diamond League debut, and he's now seen as the successor to legendary South African sprinter Akani Simbine.

Speaking in his post-race interview, the youngster had a word of advice to young South African sprinters who are looking up to him for inspiration.

"They must not give up on their dreams, they must trust in their work, they must believe in their teams, and they must not neglect their country. You know, South Africa is great; they must believe that South Africa is great so that they can always show up for the country," said the University of Turks student in South Africa.

Alongside his World University Games title, Walaza is also the reigning world junior 100m and 200m champion, an Olympic 4x100m silver medallist, and World Relays champion.

He will be looking ahead to also add the World University Games 200m title.