Akani Simbine confident ahead of semifinals showdown

He is now preparing for his semifinal tomorrow night, aiming to reach the final scheduled for 9.50 pm on the same day.

Shaun Maswanganyi and Benjamin Richardson have also secured spots in the semifinals, contributing to what locals in Paris are calling a “Super Sunday’’ Simbine remained calm and focused, recognizing the potential significance of this weekend in his career.

"I'm happy that we’re through to the next round you know, it's a race and I won and I'm into the next round. It's been a long wait and I'm happy with that, happy with going through and looking forward to tomorrow," Simbine said.

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The people of South Africa are eagerly anticipating that their flag bearer will rise to the occasion and secure his first Olympic Games medal.

However, Simbine views it not as pressure but as support from his people, and he is grateful to have it.

"There is no pressure for me, this is something that I do every day. So, there's no pressure for me. I'm enjoying this, I'm enjoying the place that I'm in right now and the expectation at home is support not pressure. It's more support, so I think we should word it as support, not expectations," he added.

Simbine is in great shape and eagerly anticipating tomorrow’s race he encourages everyone to tune in and watch him in action.

"Very good space, I'm super happy with it, happy with how I'm running. I'm just looking forward to it. So, today I just have to rest and get ready for the next day. Everybody keep on supporting and we will see you tomorrow."