Following the completion of the 14 league meetings in the series, six South African athletes have made the grade, booking their places in the 2025 Diamond League final to be held in Zurich on Wednesday and Thursday.
While some disciplines will be held on Wednesday, all six SA athletes will compete in their events on the second day of competition on Thursday. Three of the country's fastest men - national record holder Akani Simbine, former Olympic semifinalist Shaun Maswanganyi and junior sensation Bayanda Walaza - will line up in the men's 100m sprint.
Simbine was particularly impressive in the league meetings during the annual series, winning three races in the short dash in the early stages of the campaign.
Three SA women will also turn out in Zurich. World indoor champion Prudence Sekgodiso lines up in the 800m contest, Olympic semifinalist Zeney van der Walt goes in the 400m hurdles event, and Olympic silver medallist Jo-Ane du Plessis is in the javelin throw.
In addition, though she won't be challenging for a Diamond League title, Rogail Joseph will compete in the women's 400m hurdles B race on the pre-programme.
“We are proud to see six athletes at the Diamond League final this week," said the President of Athletics South Africa, James Moloi.
"Their qualification for such a prestigious stage is proof of their hard work, discipline, and consistency throughout the season. This is an excellent opportunity to test themselves against the world’s best and to measure their progress ahead of the World Championships in Tokyo next month.
“Let our athletes be reminded that they must remain focused, manage themselves wisely, and not allow the pressure of competing against top-class athletes to distract them from their ultimate goal. We have full confidence that they will represent South Africa with pride, determination, and the spirit of true champions.”
National 400m champion Zakithi Nene also qualified for the final in his event after enjoying a breakthrough season, but he is not able to compete as he is recovering from a niggling injury.
SCHEDULE OF SA ATHLETES:
7:45pm - javelin throw women (Du Plessis)
8:27pm - 100m men (Simbine, Walaza, Maswanganyi)
8:35pm - 400m hurdles women (Van der Walt)
9:09pm - 800m women (Sekgodiso)