Nigerian Sprinter Ajayi Shines While Others Fall Short in Glasgow

Nigeria's chance of winning a sprint medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games now relies on Kanyinsola Ajayi. He is the only finalist from a group of six athletes who ran in the men's and women's 100m semi-finals on Tuesday in Glasgow.

Ajayi had a strong performance, winning the second men's semi-final in 9.94 seconds, even with the rain at Scotstoun Stadium. His time earned him an automatic spot in the final.

He crossed the finish line ahead of Wales’ Jeremiah Azu, who finished in 10.00 seconds. Ghana’s Abdul-Rasheed Saminu came in third with a time of 10.06 seconds.

Ajayi's success keeps Nigeria's hopes alive after a tough evening for the other five sprinters, who all failed to advance.

In the men’s semi-finals, Favour Ashe came in fifth in the first semi-final with a time of 10.07 seconds, missing a spot in the final. Cameroon’s Emmanuel Eseme won that race, setting a national record of 9.89 seconds. Australia’s Lachlan Kennedy followed closely with a time of 9.94 seconds.

There was more disappointment in the third semi-final. Nicholas Fakorede finished fourth in 10.06 seconds, falling short of qualification. South Africa’s Gift Leotlela and Australia’s Eddie Nketia took the top two spots with times of 10.02 and 10.03 seconds, respectively.

Nigeria's women also struggled, with Rosemary Chukwuma, Blessing Ogundiran (who Did Not Start), and Miracle Oluebube Ezechukwu all not making it to the final after reaching the semi-finals.

Now, all eyes are on Ajayi as the men’s 100m final approaches later on Tuesday.

The 20-year-old has had a remarkable 2026 season, showing himself as one of Africa’s fastest sprinters. He has clocked a wind-assisted 9.84 seconds and several performances under 10 seconds. His win in the semi-final adds to his profile as a serious medal contender.

Ajayi will compete against a strong lineup that includes Cameroon’s Emmanuel Eseme, Australia’s Lachlan Kennedy, South Africa’s Gift Leotlela, Ghana’s Benjamin Azamati, Wales’ Jeremiah Azu, and Australia’s Eddie Nketia.

Team Nigeria arrived in Glasgow with high hopes after starting the Games strongly. The team has already bagged 10 medals, including six gold and four silver.

With five Nigerian athletes moving on to the 400m semi-finals and Ajayi still in the mix for sprint glory, Team Nigeria aims to add more athletics medals to its impressive count before the Games wrap up.