Everyone was buzzing about Letsile Tebogo heading into the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. The Botswanan sprinter was coming in hot as the reigning Olympic 200m champion and had been named World Athlete of the Year. Tebogo, at just 22, was shouldering not just the hopes of his nation but those of an entire continent. He had made history as Botswana’s first Olympic gold medalist just a year earlier in Paris.

His incredible journey from a football hopeful to the latest icon in world sprinting—thanks to inspiration from Usain Bolt—has caught the world’s attention, making him one of the most fascinating stories in the championships.

In a devastating turn of events, Tebogo’s 100m campaign ended in heartbreak during the final when he was disqualified for a false start, eliminating him from medal contention. It was a tough break for the athlete, who had already faced a similar setback over a year ago at the African Championships in Douala, where he also got disqualified for a false start in the semifinals.

This mistake in Tokyo was probably the most expensive one in Tebogo’s young career. It happened on a huge stage, just shy of the Olympics, and it took away his chance to go up against his rivals. The significance of this failure cannot be overstated—this was Tebogo’s third World Championships appearance, having won silver in the 100m and bronze in the 200m at Budapest 2023 before his Olympic triumph.

Being the defending Olympic champion and Africa’s fastest man, everyone thought he would not just medal but maybe even take the title that would cement his place as the top sprinter in the world. Instead, the DQ got to him on the track, and he ended up needing some support from fans on social media.

Rallying behind Letsile Tebogo with support

It’s a bummer what happened with Letsile Tebogo, especially considering he just snagged his first Olympic gold medal a year back. But the fans are still sticking by him. This fan said, “I know that Letsile Tebogo will come back stronger and get a medal. It’s not over yet! I believe in him so much.” Another fan is feeling optimistic about the Bostwanan, saying, “It’s been a long time since we’ve had such magnificent championships!!! I’m waiting for the men’s 200m!!! Letsile Tebogo can’t leave Tokyo without a medal, it’s not possible.”

Another comment said, “Letsile Tebogo chin up, champ! We will make up for it in the 200!” But honestly, this response is all about emotions, as it said, “Aww, feel it for Letsile Tebogo though.” Fans are still holding onto hope, with one saying, “Too sad! Let’s focus on the remaining races my boy. Letsile Tebogo!”

The amazing support Tebogo got shows that true champions aren’t just about the medals. It’s all about how they bounce back after a setback, and now the 200m is the perfect chance for him to make a comeback.