Zambian sprinter, Samukonga, wins country’s first Olympic medal in 28 years

Zambian sprinter, Muzala Samukonga made history by becoming the first athlete from Zambia to win an Olympic medal in 28 years.

Samukonga finished third and earned a bronze in the 400-meter final at the ongoing Paris Olympics, clocking 43.74 seconds to set a new personal best and national record.

Quincy Hall of the United States won gold with a time of 43.40 seconds, while Great Britain’s Matthew Hudson-Smith secured silver with a time of 43.44 seconds in a thrilling photo finish.

Speaking at a press conference after the race, Samukonga expressed pride in his achievement.

“Being the first Zambian to win at this Games, my first Olympics, and after 28 years since a Zambian athlete medalled? I am proud,” he said.

Reflecting on his journey, the 21-year-old athlete cited the 2022 Commonwealth Games as a turning point in his career.

“I wasn’t there when Samuel Matete won his medal, but I said I’ll be the next one, the next king. My life changed after I won the Commonwealth Games. Now, I think it will change double. It will change my life, my entire life,” he added.

Samukonga was Zambia’s last hope for a medal at the Paris Olympics after other athletes in various disciplines failed to break the country’s 28-year run without a podium finish.

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