Botswana’s golden boy, Letsile Tebogo, knows how to mark a milestone in style. Just days before turning 22, the Olympic sprint champion treated himself to a jaw-dropping new ride .
After making history at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he clocked a sensational 19.46 seconds in the 200m final to become Botswana’s first-ever Olympic champion, Tebogo has been living a dream. His dominant performance not only earned him global recognition but also left sprinting heavyweights like Noah Lyles trailing in his wake.
But even for a champion, the track isn’t always smooth.
A Tough Outing in Rabat
At the recent Diamond League meet in Rabat, Tebogo faced an unexpected hurdle. Struggling with a recurring injury, he finished last in the 200m, clocking 20.68 seconds a far cry from his Olympic heroics.
The race was won by American Courtney Lindsey in 20.11 seconds, while Tebogo, visibly out of rhythm, fought through evident discomfort.
In a candid Instagram post after the race, Tebogo didn’t shy away from addressing the setback.
“Today’s performance wasn’t what I had hoped for. I’m currently dealing with a recurring injury, which hasn’t been easy. However, I’m channeling this disappointment and pain into resolve. I’m already focused on recovery and growth, and I know I will come back a stronger man.”
It was a humbling yet powerful reminder that champions, too, have their battles, and it’s how they respond that defines them.
The Lexus Celebration
Cue the celebratory mood in Gaborone, as Tebogo made headlines once more, this time off the track.
An Instagram clip captured the sprint star getting keys to his new Lexus LX V8. Letsile Tebogo proudly displayed his luxurious SUV, a powerful, premium birthday gift, under the dealership’s lights before his June 7th birthday.
The caption read: “A new birthday gift for the fastest man in Botswana”, and the post quickly gained traction, with fans and well-wishers flooding the comments to congratulate the young star.
In Botswana, a Lexus LX is no small purchase, often fetching a couple of million pula, and for Tebogo, it’s not just a show of success but a testament to the incredible journey he’s charting both on and off the track.
With his 22nd year officially rolling in luxury, Tebogo’s next chapter awaits. His immediate focus is recovery as he gears up for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
