Botswana’s 400m star Bayapo Ndori entered the Shanghai Diamond League with high expectations after a blazing start to his season.
Just a week earlier, he had set a meeting record of 44.25 seconds at the Xiamen Diamond League, edging out USA’s Christopher Bailey (44.27) and compatriot Busang Collen Kebinatshipi (44.59) in a thrilling finish. Even Olympic champion Kirani James (44.89) couldn’t keep up, finishing fourth.
But in Shanghai, the script flipped. Ndori, who had previously outkicked Bailey, found himself on the losing end this time. The American world indoor champion turned the tables, powering to victory in 44.17 seconds, while Ndori settled for second in 44.32. Kebinatshipi secured another podium finish, taking third in 44.63.
Ndori admitted that the race was tightly contested but pointed to a critical lapse in the final strides.
“The race went very well—it was a similar performance to last week’s,” Ndori said.
“I think I ran well, but I lost it in my last two steps. That’s when Bailey managed to pass me.”
Despite the loss, Ndori remained optimistic about Botswana’s rising 400m dominance.
“We’ve had a good past week for Botswanan 400m running. We do have our challenges, but that’s true of the whole continent. This shows we will always show up and compete well.”
Christopher Bailey’s victory in Shanghai announced him as a serious contender in the quarter-mile. The American’s personal best 44.17 showcased his ability to handle pressure, holding off Ndori’s late charge. Meanwhile, Kirani James (44.94) finished fifth in a tight battle with Vernon Norwood (44.93).
The race also marked a disappointing return for Olympic champion Quincy Hall, who struggled in his season debut, finishing eighth in 45.99—far from his PB of 43.40.
Despite the Shanghai setback, Ndori’s season has been impressive. Earlier this year, he defeated Olympic 200m champion Letsile Tebogo twice—first at the ASA Grand Prix 1 in South Africa (44.59s) and then at the Maurie Plant Meet in Australia (45.14s). These wins cemented his status as Botswana’s next big track star, following in the footsteps of Tebogo and former world champion Isaac Makwala.
Ndori was also instrumental in Botswana’s 4x400m silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, proving the nation’s depth in the event.
With the World Championships in Tokyo in September 13-21 approaching, Ndori remains focused on securing a podium finish.
