Ajayi eyes more feats after Prefontaine Classic win, equaling national record

Nigerian sprinter Kayinsola Ajayi is setting his sights on even faster times after a landmark victory at the 2026 Prefontaine Classic. The 21-year-old athlete claimed the men's 100m title at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, matching his own Nigerian national record with a time of 9.84 seconds.

Ajayi edged out reigning world champion Oblique Seville of Jamaica, who finished second in 9.89 seconds. American Olympian Christian Coleman took third place with 9.95 seconds. This victory further solidifies Ajayi's rapid ascent as one of the world's elite sprinters.

"Equalling the national record again means a lot. That means I can do better and I feel great about that," Ajayi told FloTrack after the race. "I'm just going to continue the momentum, no going back and whatever is next is next."

The win at the Prefontaine Classic marks another significant achievement for Ajayi, who recently secured his first NCAA Outdoor 100m title. He credited the demanding collegiate environment for preparing him to compete at the professional level, stating that the pressure is the same. Ajayi's success is built on consistency, practice, staying healthy, and trusting himself and his coach.

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Equalling the national record again means a lot. That means I can do better and I feel great about that. I’m just going to continue the momentum, no going back and whatever is next is next.