Kanyinsola Ajayi Sets Nigerian 100m Record at Prefontaine

Kanyinsola Ajayi, a 21-year-old sprinter from Auburn University, achieved a remarkable feat by clocking a time of 9.84 seconds in the men's 100m at the prestigious Prefontaine Classic held at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. This performance not only secured him victory over reigning world champion Oblique Seville, who finished second with a time of 9.89 seconds, but also allowed Ajayi to equal the Nigerian national record previously set by Olusoji Fasuba at 9.85 seconds in 2006.

Ajayi's victory marks his Diamond League debut and signals a strong intent ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. He has had a standout collegiate season, having previously won the 2026 NCAA Indoor Championship in both the 60m and 100m events.

Ajayi expressed confidence in his ability to maintain high performance levels and emphasized the importance of consistency and trust in his training as he transitions from collegiate to professional athletics.