Kenyan sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala, Africa's fastest man in history, made a calculated decision to decline popular streamer iShowSpeed's request for a head-to-head race during Speed's visit to Kenya. This refusal sparked a widespread debate among track fans and enthusiasts, but Omanyala firmly defended his stance, emphasizing his professional athlete status and the critical financial and physical considerations that govern his career.

Omanyala, a highly accomplished sprinter sponsored by major brands like Adidas and Toyota, clarified that his career is predicated on performance and monetary gain, distinguishing himself from an influencer. "I'm not an influencer, man. I do this for money," he stated, highlighting that his income is entirely dependent on his athletic performance and corporate contracts. He explained that participating in an exhibition run would require him to pause professional commitments, necessitating a substantial prize purse of at least $50,000 to justify his involvement.

The 30-year-old athlete insisted on a "serious" and proper 100-meter race in a filled stadium, rather than a casual 50 or 60-meter exhibition. His reasoning extends to the severe risk of injury, which for him, unlike iShowSpeed, could have devastating career-ending consequences. "For him, after that run, God forbid, he gets an injury, he continues with his streams, even with crutches," Omanyala explained. "But for me, what happens? I need to earn from running, so that's why I need to cover my bases." By requesting payment, Omanyala is asserting the value of his brand and ensuring financial security in case of unforeseen injuries.

Despite his logical rationale, Omanyala's decision divided opinions. While many supported his professionalism, others argued that all sports stars inherently act as influencers, and a race with iShowSpeed, arguably the world's biggest streamer, could have significantly boosted Omanyala's visibility and brand reach beyond athletics. Online pundits, such as Erin Brown, provocatively suggested that sponsor payments are often tax write-offs for building personal brands to influence consumers, implying athletes are indeed influencers.

However, Omanyala's position is not unique among elite sprinters. Reigning Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles previously raced iShowSpeed in a 50-meter charity event for a $100,000 prize. When a rematch was discussed, Lyles, similar to Omanyala, insisted on a proper 100-meter race in a stadium with fans and money on the line. Furthermore, sprint queen Sha'Carri Richardson declined a challenge from iShowSpeed, explicitly stating, "I don't race for free." In contrast, Olympic 200m champion Letsile Tebogo raced iShowSpeed in Botswana under undisclosed terms and lost, a moment that was perceived by some as an embarrassment for the professional athlete.

Considering these precedents, Omanyala's decision to prioritize his professional integrity, financial well-being, and brand value is entirely justifiable. In an era where "sports is business," expecting compensation for his services, regardless of the opponent or circumstances, aligns with standard professional practice and safeguards his career against unnecessary risks, ensuring his brand as Africa's fastest man is appropriately valued.