Rhine-Ruhr, Germany – July 22, 2025
South African sprinter Gabriella Marais claimed a well-earned bronze medal in the women’s 100m final at the 2025 FISU World University Games, securing South Africa’s second athletics medal of the day.
Marais produced consistent performances across all three rounds of the event. On Day One, she opened her campaign with a comfortable win in Heat 4, clocking 11.68 seconds. In the semifinals, she faced a highly competitive field and responded well, running 11.69 to finish second in her heat and secure a place in the final.
She delivered her best performance of the Games in the final, running 11.51 seconds to finish third and take home the bronze. Georgia Harris of Australia won gold, while Poland’s Magdalena Stefanowicz claimed silver.
Earlier in the evening, there was disappointment for the South African camp when Marais’s sprint teammate Joviale Mbisha was disqualified due to a false start in her semifinal heat. However, Marais brought the focus back to the track with a composed and determined run in the closing stages of the programme.
In her post-race interview, Marais expressed her appreciation for those who supported her throughout the competition.
“I’m incredibly grateful to my coaches, my teammates, and the organisers,” she said. “It’s been a great experience and I’m thankful for the opportunity.”
The medal is Marais’s first at the World University Games, and her steady progression through the rounds reflected both her preparation and composure. Her ability to improve her time in the final underlined her competitive mindset and strong finish to a tightly contested event.
