Nigeria’s Kanyinsola Ajayi produced the standout performance of his career on Saturday, defeating reigning world champion Oblique Seville to win the men’s 100 metres at the 2026 Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon.
The 21-year-old sprinter crossed the finish line in an outstanding 9.84 seconds in the non-Diamond League event at Hayward Field, recording the second-fastest time in the world this season and reinforcing his place among the sport’s elite.
Seville settled for second after clocking 9.89 seconds, while American sprinter Christian Coleman finished third in 9.95 seconds. Kenneth Bednarek placed fourth in 9.96 seconds.
Ajayi’s triumph comes just weeks after he secured the men’s 100m title at the 2026 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, continuing an impressive run of form.
Although Seville made the stronger start, Ajayi gathered momentum midway through the race, surged past the Jamaican, and maintained his advantage through the finish line. His winning time trails only Seville’s season-best 9.82 seconds.
Speaking after the race, Ajayi expressed satisfaction with his performance, saying he was delighted to maintain the consistency he has shown throughout the season. He explained that sticking to his race plan was his main objective, and it ultimately delivered the desired result.
Seville acknowledged that he did not produce his best performance but said he was pleased to come through the race injury-free as he builds toward the major championships later this year.
Bednarek, however, admitted his race fell below expectations. The American said a poor acceleration out of the blocks left him chasing the field, adding that minor errors often make the difference when competing against the world’s top sprinters.