World record holder Wayde van Niekerk earned his third World Athletics Diamond League victory of the season in London on Sunday, booking his place in the series final in the 400m event. 

Van Niekerk won the one-lap race in the English capital in 44.36 seconds, holding off powerful challenges from American opposition in a blanket finish. 

Bryce Deadmon took the runner-up spot in 44.40 and Vernon Norwood finished third in 44.46. 

With his latest victory, former world and Olympic champion Van Niekerk secured his place in the Diamond League final, to be contested in Eugene, Oregon on 16 and 17 September. 

"This  result gives us hope that we are near a podium performance when we tackle the World Champs in Budapest. It's good to see that Wayde has regaied his confidence and focus. 

"Congratulations to him, his coach and his support team. We trust that he will remain inspired to take it to the wire," said James Moloi, the President of Athletics South Africa. 

The next leg of the top-flight international track and field series will be held in Zurich, Switzerland on 31 August.

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About Athletics South Africa:
Athletics South Africa (ASA) is the national governing body for the sport of athletics (including Track and Field, Cross Country, Road Running and Race Walking) in South Africa, is a member of World Athletics  and the Confederation of African Athletics.  The association was formed in 1995 and is based in Johannesburg. 

ENDS