Nigeria’s hopes for another medal at the World Athletics Championships now rest firmly on Ezekiel Nathaniel, the nation’s last man standing at the championship.
The 21-year-old Nigerian hurdler enters the men’s 400m hurdles final with determination, carrying his country’s aspirations on his young shoulders.
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Nathaniel, ranked fifth in the world, will compete against global stars including Karsten Warholm, Rai Benjamin, Abderrahman Samba, and Alison dos Santos.
He lines up in lane six, holding a season best of 47.31 seconds, which also matches his impressive lifetime personal best.
Karsten Warholm, the Norwegian world record holder, arrives as the overwhelming favorite after running a season-best time of 46.28 seconds recently.
Rai Benjamin, representing the United States, remains another strong contender, boasting a season-best time of 46.54 seconds, ranking second worldwide currently.
Brazil’s Alison dos Santos, a Tokyo Olympic medalist, enters the final after recording a season-best time of 46.65 seconds in August.
Qatar’s Abderrahman Samba and Germany’s Emil Agyekum complete a star-studded lineup, ensuring one of the most competitive finals in championship history awaits.
Nathaniel, who reached this stage after a series of powerful runs, remains focused on winning Nigeria’s second medal at the tournament, after Tobi Amusan delivered Silver medal in the 100 meter hurdles.
The young hurdler understands the challenge ahead but insists he is ready to push himself beyond limits in pursuit of global glory.
His progression throughout the championship has showcased resilience, composure, and consistent execution, giving Nigerian fans hope of another historic medal-winning performance.
Nigeria last appear in the final of the 400 meter hurdles 38 years ago, this even makes Nathaniel’s quest even more significant within national sporting history.
The men’s 400m hurdles final takes place on Friday, September 19, at 21:15 local time, (1:15 pm Nigerian time) promising fireworks on the track.
