Van Niekerk posted 19.94 seconds breaking the 20 second barrier for the first time and breaking the previous national record of 20.04 seconds. The South African sprinter entered the meet with a personal best time of 20.59 seconds from May in Cape Town. Right now now he stands in #3 position in the world's season rankings behind Justin Gatlin 19.57 and Isaiah Young 19.93. Watch Video Here>>
Ten days ago at Paris Diamond League, Van Niekerk also set a national record in the 400m of 43.96. His 400m time sits in top three position after African record holder Isaac Makwala 43.72 and Olympic champion Kirani James 43.95.
“The 400m is my main event now (his trainer Ans Botha had him switch from the 200m for endurance training). It shouldn't be a surprise to anyone that I favour the 200m but the 400m is what we’re focusing on for now,” he said. “We’re focusing on my strengths and the 400m is where my talent shines.”