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Zambian sprinter Muzala Samukonga wore Kenyan bracelets at the Diamond League final in Brussels on Friday night.
Olympics 400m bronze medalist Muzala Samukonga has opened up about the significance of the Kenyan bracelets he wore during the Brussels Diamond League final on Friday night.
The Zambian star's accessory choice caught the attention of many sparking curiosity about its meaning.
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In a post-race interview with CNN journalist Larry Madowo, Samukonga explained the story behind the bracelets, emphasizing the unity and support he receives from fellow Africans.
"This was a gift from one of the guys from Kenya, and I’m grateful for the support I’m receiving from across Africa," he said.
Samukonga, who holds the national record for Zambia, delivered an impressive performance, finishing third in the men's 400 meters with a time of 44.69 seconds.
The race was won by Great Britain's Charlie Dobson, who produced a stunning late surge to claim victory in 44.49 seconds. Grenada's Kirani James secured second place with a time of 44.63 seconds.
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Reflecting on his performance, Samukonga expressed pride and gratitude.
"It feels great, you know. I'm proud of myself, and to the people of Zambia, I just want to say they should keep supporting me. Without their support, I am nothing," he shared.
The Kenyan bracelets symbolize more than just a fashion statement for the young sprinter; they represent solidarity and the pan-African camaraderie that fuels his athletic journey.
Receiving them as a gift underscores the cross-border friendships and support networks that exist among athletes on the continent.
However, Samukonga's rise to stardom has not been without challenges. Following a previous race at the Lausanne Diamond League, he faced criticism on social media.
Some detractors questioned his performances and personal choices, putting the athlete under intense scrutiny. The young sprinter admitted that dealing with such negativity has been a learning curve but remains steadfast in his ambitions.
"Negative comments can be discouraging, but I stay focused on my goals," Samukonga said.
"I know what I'm capable of, and I won't let criticism distract me from achieving my dreams."
Earlier this year, Samukonga made headlines when he penned an open letter highlighting the financial struggles faced by Zambian athletes.
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He expressed frustration with unfulfilled promises from the government and called for better support for those representing the nation on the global stage.
The candid message sparked mixed reactions, with some rallying behind him while others criticized his decision to speak out.
Despite the controversy, Samukonga remains committed to advocating for improved conditions for athletes in Zambia.
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