Djamel Sedjati, Algeria’s rising star in middle-distance running, has set his sights on two monumental goals for the Paris Olympics: securing a medal for his nation and breaking the world record in the 800 meters, a feat currently held by Kenya’s David Rudisha.
Algeria’s Disappointment in Tokyo
Algeria’s failure to secure any medals at the Covid-delayed Tokyo Olympics in 2021 was a significant disappointment. The nation had previously basked in the glory of Taoufik Makhloufi’s stellar performances, which included a gold medal in the 1500 meters at the London 2012 Olympics and double silver medals in both the 800 meters and 1500 meters at Rio 2016. The absence of any podium finishes in Tokyo left a void in Algeria’s athletic achievements.
Sedjati’s Breakthrough Season
Born in Tiaret, northern Algeria, 25-year-old Sedjati has emerged as a beacon of hope for his country. This year has marked a breakthrough season for him, highlighted by his impressive performances on the international stage. At the Paris Diamond League meeting, Sedjati shattered Taoufik Makhloufi’s national record, clocking an extraordinary 1:41.56. This remarkable feat made him the third fastest athlete in the history of the 800 meters, trailing only David Rudisha’s world record of 1:40.91 and Denmark’s Wilson Kipketer’s time of 1:41.11.
Eyes on the World Record
Sedjati’s ambitions extend beyond national records. Just five days after his record-breaking run in Paris, he improved his time to 1:41.46 at the Monaco Diamond League, setting a new world-leading time and a Diamond League record. This consistent improvement has fueled his belief that breaking Rudisha’s world record is within reach. “I am now thinking of the world record. I hope to run it at the Olympic Games,” Sedjati declared. His determination and focus are evident in his rigorous training regimen, aimed at achieving his ambitious goals.
Overcoming Challenges
Sedjati’s journey has not been without challenges. He was forced into quarantine during the Tokyo Olympics after contracting Covid-19 upon his arrival in Japan, which thwarted his chances of competing. This setback, however, has only strengthened his resolve to excel in Paris. Reflecting on his journey, Sedjati said, “It’s the fourth time I’ve run a world lead and the second time an Algerian record. I have worked really hard for that.”
Algeria’s Olympic Legacy
Algeria’s history in Olympic middle-distance running is illustrious. Since making its Olympic debut in 1964, the nation has won nine medals in athletics, including four golds. Apart from Makhloufi’s success in 2012, other Algerian middle-distance champions include Nouria Benida Merah (1500 meters, 2000), Noureddine Morsli (1500 meters, 1996), and Hassiba Boulmerka (1500 meters, 1992). Sedjati is coached by Ammar Benida Merah, who guided his wife, Nouria, to her gold medal in Sydney, 2000.
Aiming for Glory
Sedjati’s ambition to break Rudisha’s world record is not just about personal glory but also about restoring Algeria’s prestige in middle-distance running on the global stage. His world-leading time of 2:13.97 over 1000 meters in Johannesburg earlier this year further underscores his versatility and potential. “My mindset is that the hard work I have put in will pay off,” he asserts, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence.
As Sedjati prepares for the Paris Olympics, the entire nation of Algeria watches with hopeful anticipation, ready to cheer for their new hero who is poised to make history and bring back the glory days of Algerian athletics.
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