Khotso Mokoena: Akani Simbine finally found the dog-fight

After claiming his seventh national title in April, Simbine emulated this time by defeating a strong field in the Diamond League Shanghai a week later, before achieving a world-lead 9.90 seconds at the Adidas Atlanta City Games in the USA.

Mokeona feels the 30-year-old has finally discovered the fighting spirit he was missing in previous Games.

"It's a confidence thing, and that's what Akani has found now – he has finally found that dog-fight, that confidence. Over the years, one thing I've always wanted to see from Akani is that dog-fight," said Mokoena.

"To fight until the end, and be faster in the end and pass the guys at the end – that shows your confidence, and you don't fear them anymore.

"I think he has found that dog-fight, and that what has been missing [in his races] – he has all the talent, and now he has that dog-fight, and I think he's going to do well [in Paris]."

Mokeona extends this sentiment to all South African athletes, who he feels just lack confidence and fighting spirit, and if – like Simbine – they can gain that, they too can do well in Paris.

"They need to now start acquiring the fight inside of them to prepare for the Games, because it's going to be a real fight, and I think they need to start working on their mental preparations, which are very important," he added.

"Since they've qualified, they now need to up their game in terms of more confidence, which is what I've seen most of our athletes lack."

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