JOHANNESBURG – South African hurdler Sabelo Dhlamini has made headlines after a record-breaking performance in Slovenia that not only rewrote the national record books but also placed him among the top athletes globally. Dhlamini’s time earned him the seventh spot on the all-time world list for the 400m hurdles — a feat that he describes as both “surreal” and validating.
“I feel good. My coach and I have been working hard to reach this milestone. We believed the time was in us, but to actually go out there and do it — it felt surreal,” Sabelo Dhlamini said shortly after the race.
The achievement marks a high point in the 30-year-old athlete’s career, which has been defined by perseverance in the face of numerous setbacks — both professional and personal.
Sabelo Dhlamini Reflects on Career-Defining Race and Challenges Facing Elite Athletes
Despite setting a new South African national record, Dhlamini faces the heartbreaking possibility of missing the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. His qualifying time was just 0.07 seconds short of the official standard of 48.50 seconds.
“It’s frustrating. I might be missing the World Championships just because I was slightly off the mark. But I’m not discouraged. There’s still so much I can improve on — especially execution and endurance,” Sabelo Dhlamini explained.
Known for his explosive speed, Dhlamini admits that sometimes raw speed can undermine long-term durability. That’s an area he and his coaching team are focused on heading into the off-season.
Dhlamini’s success in Slovenia did not come overnight. Earlier this year, he represented Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) and won gold with a time of 48.57 seconds. While just shy of the world championship qualifier, the race signaled that Dhlamini was on the cusp of greatness.
“This year has been about consistency and mental clarity. I’ve learned to trust myself more and acknowledge that I belong in these international fields,” said Sabelo Dhlamini.
That belief has become a cornerstone of his performance. He credits much of his recent success to a shift in mindset — one that is more appreciative, spiritual, and self-assured.
“If God is with me, no one can be against me. I’ve learned not to be so nervous or anxious and instead to believe in the work I’ve put in,” he said.
While his talent is unquestionable, Sabelo Dhlamini is candid about the challenges that come with being a professional athlete without robust financial backing. He revealed that despite being ready to compete in Europe as far back as three years ago, financial constraints delayed his arrival on the European circuit until this year.
“Mental health is very important. When I got to Europe, I wasn’t confident. I struggled mentally because I didn’t have sponsorship. The journey to get here was long and stressful,” he admitted.
Traveling, competing, and maintaining peak physical condition without a reliable support system or steady income has taken a toll. However, the presence of a strong coaching staff and a renewed mental approach has helped him remain grounded.
“Having the right people around me, especially my coach, helped me get through those tough moments. I wouldn’t be here without that support,” said Dhlamini.
Now that he’s among the top 10 fastest hurdlers in history, Sabelo Dhlamini is far from satisfied. He sees his recent breakthrough not as a peak, but as a stepping stone to even greater achievements.
“Slovenia was just the beginning. I’ve always known I have the speed, but now I want to pair that with perfect execution. I want to compete at the Olympics, the World Championships — I want to win medals for South Africa,” he stated confidently.
While qualification for this year’s Worlds may be out of reach, Dhlamini is already planning his comeback. The focus is now on building strength, refining technique, and securing the kind of sponsorships and support he needs to fully unlock his potential.
In an era where South African athletics is looking for its next breakout star, Sabelo Dhlamini may very well be the athlete to watch. His record-setting performance, candid honesty, and relentless drive set him apart not only as a top-tier competitor but also as an inspiring figure for young athletes navigating similar struggles.
With the right backing and continued belief in himself, Sabelo Dhlamini is poised to go from national hero to global champion.
Source- EWN