Kayinsola Ajayi Wins Bronze, Eyes Gold in Commonwealth Games

Kayinsola Ajayi made history this year by winning a bronze medal in the men’s 100m at the Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow. He is the first Nigerian man to reach the podium in this event at the Games in twenty years. After the medal ceremony, the 21-year-old shared his thoughts with PREMIUM TIMES about his performance, his goal for gold, the upcoming 4x100m relay, staying humble amid rising fame, and representing his Ikorodu roots.

Question: Congratulations. You’ve just collected your bronze medal in the men’s 100m. You’re smiling today. Has it started to sink in how special this achievement is?
Kayinsola Ajayi: Yeah, I mean, even after yesterday’s race, a lot of people were congratulating me and saying they enjoyed watching me compete. They kept saying, “You did your best.” So, yeah, I’m proud of myself, and I feel like everybody was happy. I was also happy with my performance yesterday, especially with the rain and the weather. I feel like I can’t beat myself up forever.

Question: You’re now the first Nigerian man to win a Commonwealth Games medal in the 100m in two decades. How does that feel?
Kayinsola Ajayi: Yesterday, I went out there wanting to become the first Nigerian man to win gold in the 100m at the Commonwealth Games. I wanted to win so badly. I really wanted that gold. But I’m grateful to come away with a medal.

Question: You’re only 21. Does that give you confidence that your best years are still ahead?
Kayinsola Ajayi: I still have a lot of time. I’m only 21, so I just have to keep working, keep trusting myself, and keep trusting God.

Question: One of your major goals this season was the individual 100m. Now your attention shifts to the 4x100m relay. What is the plan?
Kayinsola Ajayi: Me and the boys are ready. You know how we get. We’re ready for the 4x100m. On Saturday, we’re going to put on a show. We’re just going to trust God and let Him take control.

Question: It’s been an incredible season for you. You broke the Nigerian record, equalled it twice, and also won on the Diamond League circuit. How do you reflect on your progress?
Kayinsola Ajayi: I’m proud of myself for doing that. I’m on the right path and doing the right things. I’m consistent, and that’s part of being a good athlete. So, yeah, I’m proud of myself.

Question: At one point this season, you were the world leader and your name was everywhere. How do you stay grounded despite the growing attention?
Kayinsola Ajayi: After the race, I just go back to my normal self. I don’t feel like I’m bigger than anybody. At the end of the day, you just have to humble yourself. You don’t have to let all of that get into your head.

Question: Each time your achievements are celebrated, especially by Making of Champions, people also talk about Ikorodu. How does it feel to be putting your hometown on the global map?
Kayinsola Ajayi: I feel great about it. People always say, “Ikorodu to the world,” and I’m proud to be part of that. It feels good to know you’re putting Ikorodu on the map. Some people think that because you’re from Ikorodu, you can’t make it, but that’s a big lie. If you’re disciplined, you know what you’re doing, you trust yourself and trust God, everything will work out. It doesn’t matter where you come from. You can make it.

Question: What comes next after Glasgow?
Kayinsola Ajayi: One step at a time, like I always say. I’ll go back to school, get back to work, keep training, and take it from there.