World Championships: Nigeria’s Ezekiel Nathaniel qualifies for 400m Hurdles semifinals in Tokyo

The men’s 400m hurdles semifinals are scheduled for Wednesday, where Nathaniel will attempt to further his dream of a podium finish in Tokyo.

Nigeria’s Ezekiel Nathaniel continued his impressive run on the global stage as he stormed to victory in the final heat of the men’s 400m hurdles at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo on Monday.

Nathaniel, who has steadily grown into one of Africa’s leading hurdlers, clocked a time of 48.37 seconds to book his place in the semifinals.

The 21-year-old held his composure through the race, finishing strongly to edge out a competitive field.

He beat America’s Caleb Dean, who came in second with 48.67s, while Brazil’s Francisco Dos Reis Viana claimed third place in a personal best time of 48.69s.

The Nigerian athlete’s performance adds to his rising reputation, having already made history as the national record holder in the event.

His progression into the semifinals now sets up a mouthwatering contest as he faces some of the world’s finest hurdlers, including reigning Olympic and world medalists.

Though he finished with 10th fastest time across the heats, Nathaniel will be aiming not only to secure a place in the final but also to put Nigeria back on the map in global athletics, particularly in the hurdles where African representation has often been limited.

The men’s 400m hurdles semifinals are scheduled for Wednesday, where Nathaniel will attempt to further his dream of a podium finish in Tokyo.