Harare, Zimbabwe – Zimbabweans from across the political and social spectrum have come together to defend national sprinter Tapiwanashe Makarawu after a Daily News post describing his 7th-place finish in the men’s 200m final at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo on 19 September 2025 as a “failure” sparked widespread outrage.
The controversy began when the Daily News tweeted on 20 September:“ZIMBABWEAN sprinter Tapiwanashe Makarawu failed in his bid for a global medal yesterday, finishing seventh in the men’s 200m final at the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.”
The wording immediately drew criticism from fans, journalists, and public figures alike, who argued that the description was disrespectful to an athlete who had achieved a historic milestone for Zimbabwe. Many highlighted that finishing 7th in the world in the men’s 200m is an extraordinary feat, a level of achievement unmatched by most athletes nationally or continentally.Advocate Fadzayi Mahere was among the first high-profile voices to denounce the tweet. She wrote:
“This is not how you describe a legendary Zimbabwean sprinter who excelled in his heat, had a brilliant showing in the semi-finals with a sub-20 dash, and ran amongst the best in the world on behalf of all of us in the final. He is the 7th fastest 200m sprinter on the globe. Thank you, Tapiwanashe and Makanakaishe, for representing us with excellence and ensuring Zimbabwe was on the board at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. The future is incredibly bright, and we will keep rooting for you both! #TeamZimbabwe🇿🇼”Social media reactions quickly followed. Solomon Saungweme commented:
Zimbabweans Rally Behind Sprinter Tapiwanashe Makarawu After “Failure” Label Sparks Outrage
“To use the word ‘failed’ on an athlete who finished 7th in the 200m final at the world stage is just madness. Failure is calling the number 7 in the world a failure. Out of 8 billion people, he is 7th, and Daily News sees failure there. Terrible to say the least.”Another Twitter user, @Munyah_Wacho, asked rhetorically:
“‘Failed’ kumunhu akaita number 7 in the world?? (You call someone who came 7th in the world a failure??)For many Zimbabweans, Makarawu’s performance represented a moment of national pride, illustrating the country’s growing presence in global athletics. @Manhize_53 wrote:
“If anything, Makarawu has put our beloved nation on the world map and made all of us proud. He became the 7th fastest man in the world. Musaite sembwa kudzingirira mota (Don’t behave like dogs chasing cars).”Similarly, @suprememxc questioned the choice of words, adding:“Let’s define ‘failed’ because I mean 7th in the whole world ka haiwawooo lingasjwayeli lina (you don’t usually get that).”Other commentators highlighted the record-setting nature of his performance. @NyashaSande1 said:“Poor reporting. The guy did exceptionally well, even set a new record for our country.”@TravelGuy added context to his achievement:
“We have an opportunity to celebrate a young talent who gave his all, won in his heat, finished second in a very fast race, and came 7th against world champions. He did not fail; he succeeded in representing Zimbabwe on the big stage. Respect. You do know he is 7th in the WORLD, right? Not in Zim or Africa, but IN THE WORLD!”Meanwhile, @FariSnoe reflected on the mischaracterisation:
“Failed kudii ko imi? (Failed how?) He did very well against the global best. No medal, but still a great achievement. You could have told his story so much better than this.Zimbabweans emphasized that Makarawu’s performance deserved celebration, not criticism. @SavannahSamas noted:
“We celebrate his incredible achievement of reaching a global final! Competing amongst the world’s elite and representing Zim on such a grand stage is a testament to his immense talent and dedication. This is a moment of national pride, and we look forward to his continued success.”
Even some drew parallels with scripture. @MrTsvangirayi referenced Mark 6:4:“‘A prophet is not without honour except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home.’”
Several voices urged the Daily News to retract its original post. @chipamaungar wrote:“How about a spirited outing couldn’t make it to the next stage? Zimbabweans don’t fail; they can falter. Any other narrative is unpatriotic and uncalled for.”
By late morning on 20 September, Makarawu’s name continued trending on social media, with Zimbabweans united in defense of a young athlete who had proudly represented the nation on a global stage.
The debate over the “failure” label has prompted wider discussion about how media reports on national athletes. For now, the focus remains on celebrating Makarawu’s historic achievement and inspiring the next generation of Zimbabwean sprinters. Many hope that this controversy will strengthen national support for athletes competing on the world stage and ensure that their efforts are recognised appropriately.
Tapiwanashe Makarawu, through his performance in Tokyo, has reminded Zimbabweans of the importance of perspective: finishing 7th in the world is not failure—it is a milestone of excellence worthy of national celebration.
Source- iHarare
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