A year of perspective, progress and quiet power

IN a year when global athletics continued its renaissance, South Africa’s sprint talisman Akani Simbine walked away from 2025 with something far more valuable than a single medal: perspective.

- MATSHELANE MAMABOLO

The man who has carried the nation’s hopes in the 100m for nearly a decade reflects on the campaign not through the narrow lens of a single championship result, but through the broader tapestry of a long and demanding season.

And in doing so, he reminds us why he remains one of the most respected competitors on the global circuit.

For Simbine, the year began promisingly with an indoor medal —a space where South Africans have historically seldom shone.

That performance set the tone for what followed: consistent podium finishes on the Diamond League circuit and, ultimately, a world ranking of third.

“2025 was a successful year man. I am not going to bash it down due to one championship or one competition. It was a good year. It started off well, winning a medal at the indoors and a couple of races in the Diamond League circuit. So, for me it was a successful year.

“Just one competition didn’t go well but I am not just gonna bash myself for that. | am happy and looking forward to building for next year as well.”