Divine Iheme’s Humble Response After Beating Record Set by Usain Bolt and Noah Lyles as a Teenager

Divine Iheme’s Humble Response After Beating Record Set by Usain Bolt and Noah Lyles as a Teenager

 

Rising Nigerian sprint sensation Divine Iheme made headlines this week after it emerged that his recent 200m performance had surpassed records previously set by global sprint legends Usain Bolt and Noah Lyles at the same age. But while the world buzzed with comparisons and predictions, the 17-year-old athlete’s response was one of humility, focus, and maturity far beyond his years.

Competing at the African U18 Championships in Addis Ababa, Iheme clocked a blistering 20.04 seconds in the 200 meters — not only securing gold but also registering the fastest time ever recorded by a 17-year-old in that category. The mark edged out Usain Bolt’s 20.13s at age 17, and Noah Lyles’ 20.18s set when he was still a high schooler in the U.S.

When informed during a post-race interview that his time had eclipsed those of Bolt and Lyles — both of whom went on to become world champions and Olympic medalists — Divine Iheme paused for a moment, smiled, and gave a calm but powerful reply.

> “I have nothing but respect for legends like Bolt and Lyles,” he said. “Beating their times at this age is an honor, but it’s not a reason to relax. It just means I have a lot more work to do if I want to follow in their footsteps.”

Iheme’s performance sent ripples through the international track and field community. Social media lit up with videos of the race, and comparisons to Bolt’s early years quickly surfaced. However, coaches and analysts were quick to point out that Iheme’s temperament might be his biggest asset.

> “Speed can be developed, but mindset like his is rare,” said Coach Adewale Bakare, who has worked with Iheme since he was 13. “He’s grounded. He studies races. He trains with focus. And even now, with the spotlight on him, he’s staying humble.”

Born and raised in Owerri, Imo State, Divine started sprinting barefoot at local school competitions. His natural talent was spotted early, and within three years, he had joined Nigeria’s junior national training camp. His coach believes his best years are still ahead — particularly as he matures physically and gains more international racing experience.

The comparisons to Bolt and Lyles, while flattering, come with immense pressure. But Iheme isn’t letting the hype distract him.

> “Records can be broken again tomorrow,” he said. “What matters is staying consistent, staying healthy, and respecting the sport. I’m not trying to be the next Bolt. I’m trying to be the first Divine.”

With the 2026 World U20 Championships on the horizon, all eyes will be on Iheme to see if he can replicate — or even improve on — his performance on the global stage. For now, he remains focused on training and school, balancing his athletic dream with the life of a regular teenager.

If his current path is anything to go by, Nigeria — and the world — might just be witnessing the rise of the next great sprinting superstar.