Walaza withdrawn from World Champs due to injury

September 10, 2025 64

South African sprint star, Bayanda Walaza, has been withdrawn from the World Championships in Tokyo, Athletics South Africa (ASA) announced on Wednesday.

Walaza who was set to compete in the 100m heats on the opening day of the showpiece on Saturday, injured his hamstring in the final Diamond League meet in Zurich, Switzerland last month.

“Following a comprehensive medical evaluation, ASA has determined that Walaza’s hamstring injury… will prevent him from participating in the Championships,” the federation said.

Athletics SA says the decision has been communicated to the athlete, his coach and his management.

“This decision was made in the best interest of the athlete and the integrity of the national team.”

ASA says Walaza, the recently crowned double World Student Games champion, will be replaced in the 100m by Retshidisitswe Mlenga, who this year became the 10th South African to break 10 seconds in the 100m.