Bayanda Walaza blazes to new personal best with victory in Slovakia 

by Chumasande Matiwane
Bayanda Walaza sets new personal best record.

South African sprint sensation Bayanda Walaza continued his remarkable rise on the international athletics circuit by clocking a sensational new personal best of 9.89 seconds to win the men’s 100 metres at the TIPOS meeting in Banská Bystrica, Slovakia.

Also see: Bayanda Walaza storms to victory at Ostrava Golden Spike

The 20-year-old produced the race of his career, becoming the first South African to break the above-mentioned barrier this season as he surged clear of a quality field. 

Bayanda’s winning time improved his previous personal best of 9.94 seconds and underlined his growing status as one of the world’s most exciting young sprinters.

 

Jamaica’s Ackeem Blake finished second after crossing the line in 9.93 seconds, while the rest of the field were left trailing as Bayanda delivered a composed and explosive performance from start to finish. 

The victory continues an outstanding 2026 campaign for the South African, who has consistently challenged the world’s elite.  

Earlier this season, the sprinter equalled his then personal best of 9.94 seconds to win the prestigious Golden Spike meeting in Ostrava, confirming his ability to perform on the biggest stages. 

Also see: Bayanda Walaza has forgotten how to lose, records new personal best

Impeccable performance

His latest performance in Slovakia is another major milestone in a career that has progressed rapidly over the past two years.  

Running 9.89 seconds not only marks a personal breakthrough but also places Bayanda among the fastest men in the world this season. Walaza’s victory in Slovakia is another statement that South Africa’s next sprint superstar has truly arrived.

Also see: Bayanda Walaza stands on business and becomes the fastest man in 2025

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