Botswana declares half-day holiday after Letsile Tebogo wins country's first Olympic gold in 200m sprint at Paris 2024. President Masisi celebrates historic achievement, praising Tebogo's tribute to his late mother. The victory marks a milestone for Botswana and African athletics, with Tebogo becoming the fifth-fastest man in event history.
Botswana celebrated a historic moment in its Olympic journey as sprinter Letsile Tebogo clinched the nation's first-ever gold medal in the 200-meter event at the Paris 2024 Olympics. President Mokgweetsi Masisi responded by declaring a half-day public holiday on Friday to mark this unprecedented achievement.
Tebogo, just 21 years old, outpaced American favorites Kenny Bednarek and Noah Lyles, securing not only Botswana's first gold but also Africa's first title in the 200-meter sprint. His winning time of 19.46 seconds propelled him to become the fifth-fastest man in history over this distance.
In a touching tribute, Tebogo wore spikes bearing his late mother's birthdate, who passed away in May. President Masisi, in his announcement, acknowledged this personal element of Tebogo's victory.
The president, who admitted to losing his voice from cheering during the race, emphasized the significance of this win for Botswana. He called for a national pause to celebrate Tebogo's accomplishment, describing it as a moment that will be "etched in the annals of the history of the Republic."
This victory marks a pivotal moment in Botswana's sporting history and has united the nation in celebration.
