Kenya’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, shocked fans this week by announcing his withdrawal from the Diamond League final in Zurich, just days before the season’s climax.
In a personal statement released on Monday, Omanyala cited persistent pain in his hip, iliopsoas, and gluteal muscles. “I regret to inform you that I will be unable to participate in the Diamond League Finals,” he wrote. He added that he remains hopeful about recovery and aims to be “fully fit for Tokyo.” This announcement came as a blow not just to him, but to a nation eager for a major sprinting success.
Omanyala’s 2025 season had been full of highs and lows. He began with strong second-place runs in Xiamen (10.13) and Rabat (10.05). However, he slipped to ninth in Shanghai and then placed third at the Kip Keino Classic with a time of 10.07.
He holds the African 100 m record of 9.77 seconds and is among the fastest sprinters in the world. Yet his form this year has been patchy as he vies for his first global medal.
The Diamond League final in Zurich was a gateway to the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo (13–21 September), where champions earn wildcard entry. With Omanyala’s exit, that berth—and Kenya’s 100 m hopes—hang in the balance.
Sports experts point out that hip and gluteal injuries are particularly troublesome for sprinters, affecting both power and mobility. Recovery time can vary from a few days to several weeks depending on the injury’s severity. Omanyala’s decision to withdraw now may be a strategic choice to protect his long-term fitness ahead of the Tokyo worlds.
Meanwhile, Kenya will still be represented by top stars such as Faith Kipyegon, Emmanuel Wanyonyi, and Julius Yego at the Diamond League final.
All eyes now turn to Tokyo. If Omanyala heals in time, he could yet deliver—maybe even stronger than before.
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