CAPE TOWN – Wayde van Niekerk continued his quest for double glory at the IAAF World Championships on Monday night by winning his 200m heat at London Stadium.
The 400m Olympic champion made a good start in what was the third heat of the event, and was in the lead as the field went through the bend.
Van Niekerk was chased all the way by British athlete Daniel Talbot, and even though the South African jogged through the last 50 metres, he was still first over the line in 20.16, with Talbot finishing second with the same time.
The 25-year-old Van Niekerk took it easy to ensure that he is as fresh as possible for the 400m final, which takes place on Tuesday night at 10.52pm.
And there were nearly two more South Africans in the 200m semi-finals.
National 100m record-holder Akani Simbine slowed down over the last 30 metres to finish second in his heat in 20.26, but a dream turned into a nightmare 19-year-old sensation Clarence Munyai.
The Tuks star proved what a genuine talent he is by ending third in his race in 20.19, but he was disqualified afterwards for stepping out of his lane.
Meanwhile, Wenda Nel produced a strong showing in her 400m hurdles heat to go through to the semi-finals. Nel clocked a good time of 55.47 to come home in second place behind American Kori Carter, who ran 54.99.
* This story has been updated.