WAYDE van Niekerk completed his first journey around the Tokyo track in his quest to defend the Olympic title he won in such spectacular style in Rio five years ago.
On an oppressively hot day in the Japanese capital, the world record holder reached the line relatively comfortably, finishing third to secure an automatic qualification place in the semifinals in 45.25 – the 12th fastest time of the day.
Botswana’s Isaac Makwala was second fastest behind American Michael Cherry, after winning his heat in 44.86.
“I wouldn’t say it was tough. I went out quite strong, felt quite comfortable, switched off a bit too soon but got the job done,” said a relaxed-looking Van Niekerk afterwards, although he did admit to some pre-race jitters.
The 29-year-old has had a troubled build-up to these Games with very little racing as he continues his comeback from a 2017 knee injury that kept
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