By Peter Omopo
Team Nigeria’s Ezekiel Nathaniel has advanced to the semifinals of the men’s 400m hurdles at the World Athletics Championships after storming to victory in his heat on Monday.
The 21-year-old clocked 48.37 seconds, combining speed and technical finesse to dominate the race and announce himself as one of the athletes to watch as the competition intensifies.
Nathaniel maintained a smooth rhythm over the barriers and finished strongly, drawing applause from spectators and coaches impressed by his poise under pressure.
American Caleb Dean finished second in 48.67 seconds, while Brazil’s Francisco Dos Reis Viana set a personal best of 48.69 seconds to take third place in the heat.
The Nigerian’s commanding performance represents a significant milestone in his career and fuels optimism about his medal chances in the coming rounds. His national record currently ranks him fifth in the world, positioning him as a genuine contender for a podium finish.
If successful, Nathaniel would become the first Nigerian athlete to win a medal in the 400m hurdles at the World Championships.
