Letsile Tebogo, Botswana’s rising sprint star and 200m Olympic gold medalist, has clarified his recent remarks about retiring from track and field. Speaking ahead of the Botswana Golden Grand Prix, Tebogo explained that he plans to take a temporary break next year, not retire, to cope with the intense pressure and spotlight following his Paris Olympic victory.
After winning gold at the Paris Olympic Games, Tebogo said the sudden fame overwhelmed him. “Everyone sees me as a hero, and that makes it very hard for me to cope,” he told reporters. The 21-year-old athlete revealed that he initially considered retiring this season but decided instead to pause his career briefly to enjoy his teenage years and regain a sense of normal life.Letsile Tebogo emphasised that his break is about mental health and balance, not stepping away permanently. “It’s not retirement, retirement. I just want to feel like a normal human being again,” he said.
However, beyond his challenges, Letsile Tebogo remains committed to inspiring young African athletes. He said his goal in winning Olympic gold was to challenge stereotypes about African runners and prove that the continent produces world-class sprinters, not just long-distance athletes. “I wanted to change the narrative and show the world that Africa can also produce sprinters,” he added.
Letsile Tebogo’s 2024-2025 Highlights
Letsile Tebogo made history in 2024 by winning Botswana’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in the men’s 200m at the Paris Olympic Games. He set a new African record of 19.46 seconds in a thrilling final against top sprinters like Kenny Bednarek and Noah Lyles.
Following his Olympic triumph, Letsile Tebogo maintained his form in 2025, securing the men’s 200m title at the inaugural Grand Prix Brescia in Italy. There, he outpaced Kenny Bednarek and Noah Lyles, winning comfortably in 20.66 seconds at the Gabre Gabric Stadium.
Moreover, Tebogo described Brescia as his “second home,” having prepared for the Paris Olympics there.
In addition to his success, Tebogo contributed to Botswana’s silver medal in the men’s 4x400m relay at the same event, showcasing his versatility and team spirit. Looking ahead, Letsile Tebogo plans to return stronger and continue competing at the highest level.
