South Africa’s Wayde van Niekerk just shocked the entire world with a world record run to win the 400m gold medal in the summer Olympic Games in Rio.
The 24 year old South African came out of nowhere to surprise the entire field, winning in a world record time of 43.03s, obliterating the American legend Michael Johnson’s 17 year record that many had hitherto thought unbeatable.
Grenada’s Kirani James, who won gold four years ago in London, placed second, with American LaShawn Merritt finishing third.
Niekerk’s feat is all the more astonishing considering he ran from lane 8, a feat never before accomplished.
“I have dreamed of this since I was a kid.” Niekerk said after his win.
“I believed it was possible. I am just glad things went my way. I thank Michael Johnson for setting such a great example for us. I just did my best.”