Louis Rees-Zammit has proved he has serious wheels after coming agonisingly close to beating a world champion sprinter over 40 metres.

The Wales international has made a career out of leaving defenders eating his dust.

But this time, he faced someone who actually gets paid to run fast.

Step forward Jeremiah Azu.

The Welsh sprint sensation won the world indoor 60m title in 2025 and is widely regarded as the fastest man in Wales.

Surely a comfortable victory against a rugby player?

Not quite.

Rees-Zammit almost pulls off shock

The Bristol Bears speedster clocked an incredible 4.59 seconds over 40 metres.

Azu managed 4.54 seconds.

That meant just 0.05 seconds separated the pair.

According to WalesOnline's report on the remarkable sprint challenge, Rees-Zammit's Bristol team-mates were left stunned.

And understandably so.

Azu is one of the world's leading short-distance sprinters, while Rees-Zammit has spent much of his career dodging tackles rather than starting blocks.

The challenge was filmed before Bristol's clash with Saracens.

The Wales star later called for artificial pitches to be banned after suffering painful skin burns during the match.

Despite his spell chasing an NFL dream, the Welsh flyer clearly hasn't lost his explosive pace.

He has also started the rugby season in fine form, scoring four tries in his opening three matches.

Five facts about Louis Rees-Zammit

1. Born in Wales

Rees-Zammit was born in Penarth on 2 February 2001 and grew up dreaming of representing Wales.

2. Gloucester wonderkid

He made his senior Gloucester debut aged just 18 in 2019, quickly establishing himself as one of rugby's most exciting young talents.

3. British & Irish Lion at 20

His remarkable rise earned him selection for the 2021 British & Irish Lions tour of South Africa when he was just 20.

4. Chased the NFL dream

He stunned rugby fans in 2024 by leaving Gloucester to pursue American football, spending time with the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars.

5. Returned to rugby union

After his American football adventure, Rees-Zammit signed for Bristol Bears in 2025, bringing his trademark speed back to the rugby pitch.