How Nigerian sprinter, Ajayi shocked World Champion Seville to win Prefontaine classic 100m

Nigerian sprint sensation KanyinsolaAjayi produced the performance of his career on Saturday, storming to victory in the men’s 100m event at the 2026 Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, United States.

Competing against some of the world’s fastest athletes, the 21-year-old delivered a remarkable run, crossing the finish line in 9.84 seconds to equal the Nigerian national record and secure a memorable win on his Diamond League debut.

Ajayi’s victory came against a high-quality field that included Jamaica’s reigning world champion, Oblique Seville, and former world champion Christian Coleman of the United States. Seville finished second in 9.89 seconds, while Coleman settled for third place in 9.95 seconds.

Another American, Kenneth Bednarek, was fourth with a time of 9.96 seconds.

The race began with Seville making an impressive start from the blocks, but Ajayi quickly found his rhythm. The Nigerian showcased his trademark acceleration after the opening 30 metres, surging past his rivals and taking command of the race. He maintained his speed and composure over the closing stages to seal an emphatic victory in front of a packed crowd at the iconic Hayward Field.

The result marked a significant milestone in Ajayi’s rapidly growing career, as it was his first appearance in a Diamond League event. His performance also underlined his status as one of the most exciting young sprinters in global athletics.

Speaking after the race, Ajayi expressed satisfaction with both his performance and the consistency he has displayed throughout the season.

“I feel good. I’ve been consistent, and that has been part of my goal this season. I wanted to come out here, execute my race properly and do what I know I’m capable of doing. I’m happy with the result,” he said.

Ajayi’s triumph in Eugene is the latest highlight in what has been a breakthrough year for the Nigerian star. He has enjoyed a dominant collegiate season in the United States, winning NCAA titles in both the men’s 60m indoor and 100m outdoor events.

Earlier in the season, he grabbed global attention when he clocked a wind-assisted 9.72 seconds at the NCAA Championships.

Although the time was aided by wind and therefore not eligible for record purposes, it demonstrated the immense speed and potential of the young athlete. The performance placed him among the fastest sprinters ever recorded under all conditions.

His latest success against world-class opposition is expected to further boost confidence in Nigerian athletics, with many now viewing Ajayi as a genuine medal contender at major international championships in the years ahead.

By defeating established stars such as Seville and Coleman on one of athletics’ biggest stages, Ajayi has sent a strong message to the sprinting world that he is ready to compete with the very best.

The victory not only strengthens his reputation as one of Nigeria’s brightest sporting talents but also signals the emergence of a new force in men’s sprinting.