Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo and South Africa’s Akani Simbine were two of Africa’s most anticipated athletes heading into the Paris Olympics. Tebogo won gold in the men’s 200 meters and silver in the 4×400-meter relay, while Simbine earned silver in the men’s 4×100-meter relay, bringing pride to their continent with their outstanding performances.
Even though they were competitors in the event, the athletes made a kind gesture to each other, displaying their sportsmanship to the public at the Stade de France, as seen on the South African athlete’s Instagram post.
In the 100-meter sprint finals, the two Africans lined up together. However, neither of them won a medal in the event, as Simbine finished fourth in 9.82 seconds and Tebogo finished sixth in 9.86 seconds.
The 100 meters was one of the closest events to the finish line in the Paris Olympics, with the lowest time being nearly a sub-9.9, which delighted the audience at the Stade de France.
However, as the race came to a close, everyone’s attention was drawn to Simbine and Tebogo, who exchanged a fist bump, which was also captured in a photo posted by the South African athlete on Instagram with an intriguing message.
“Respect is earned! @tebogo_letsile_ Africa to the world!”
Both of them contributed to bringing the continent of Africa into the spotlight of sprinting, which was often the domain of North American and European competitors.
View this post on Instagram
Their performances, which won them Olympic medals, were etched in the annals of the sport and their country’s history, inspiring future generations of athletes to represent their country and Africa.
Despite the fact that they were from different nations, supporters praised their brotherhood and sportsmanship in the Instagram post’s comments section.
“No DNA just BRSA”
Despite the roughly nine-year age difference, this fan admired the mutual respect between the two athletes.
“Game recognises Game.”
Another fan was thrilled to see African athletes reach the peak in track and field.
“Africa to the world.”
One fan who watched Akani Simbine and Letsile Tebogo during the Paris Olympics was thrilled with their performances.
“You guys have made us so happy. Stronger together!”
Another supporter was proud of their accomplishments.
“Well done and Congratulations!”
The Paris Olympics highlighted several of the sport’s underdogs. And, with Tebogo and Simbine propelling Africa to new heights, the fanbase of the sport could anticipate more from the athletes in the upcoming track events for the remainder of the 2024 season.
