Category: Track and field

 

Melissa Jefferson won 100m bronze medal behind Sha’Carri Richardson and Julien Alfred at the Paris Olympic Games i Melissa Jefferson won 100m bronze medal behind Sha’Carri Richardson and Julien Alfred at the Paris Olympic Games

Melissa Jefferson silenced her critics and stunned the sprinting world by defeating Julien Alfred in the 100m at the Prefontaine Classic, cementing her resurgence as a serious World Championship contender.

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden delivered one of the most defining victories of her career at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, when she defeated Olympic champion Julien Alfred and teammate Sha’Carri Richardsin in the 100m dash.

 

Jefferson clocked 10.75 seconds to edge out Alfred, who came in at 10.77, marking Alfred’s first loss of the season.

 

Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

 

Who is Athing Mu’s husband? Everything you need to know about her mysterious partner

 

The performance came just weeks after Jefferson posted a world-leading 10.73 at the Philadelphia Grand Slam, further cementing her status as a top contender in the 2025 season.

 

Marie-Josee Ta Lou-Smith ran a season-best 10.90 to finish third, while Jamaica’s Tina Clayton placed fourth in 11.02.

 

American favorite Sha’Carri Richardson had a shockingly off-day, finishing last.

 

 

Millions Beatrice Chebet Will Earn After Breaking 5000m World Record

“I Am Here to Stay” – Jefferson’s Breakthrough Moment

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden dominated the women’s 100m event at the GST League.

Speaking after the race, Jefferson emphasized that her win was more than just a one-off, but a result of hard work, discipline, and a sharpened mindset.

 

“I’m showing up every day for myself, even on the hard days. The goal is not just to be in these races, but to dominate and win,” she said.

 

Jefferson acknowledged the strides she’s made in embracing the full scope of professionalism in track and field.

 

“I think the biggest thing for me this year is learning how to become a professional athlete and what that really means,” she reflected.

 

 

Faith Kipyegon: The Millions Awaiting Her After Breaking World Record

“It’s my own journey. I’m my own boss. But I have to be disciplined enough to stay true to that vision.”

 

Her resolve to stay healthy and consistent comes in sharp contrast to the challenges she faced in 2024, when an early injury delayed her season.

 

“I look back at that girl in Paris last year and I had all the heart, but not the strength,” she admitted.

 

“This year, my focus is on staying healthy and seeing just how far a healthy Melissa can go.”

 

 

5 Key Harambee Stars Players Benni McCarthy Risks Losing Ahead of CHAN 2024

Redemption at Hayward Field

 

Hayward Field has seen mixed fortunes for Jefferson in the past, but Saturday’s sunny conditions and electric crowd helped set the tone for her powerful run.

 

“I’ve had good times and bad times here, but when the sun shines in Eugene, I know it’s going to be a great day,” she said, beaming.

 

“To come out here and see all those amazing fans, it’s just so good.”

 

Jefferson’s victory not only ended Alfred’s undefeated streak but also sent a message to her competitors as the World Championships loom.

 

 

In the world of athletics, greatness is often forged in solitude—early mornings, grueling sessions, and a relentless internal drive.

But sometimes, it is the presence of a kindred spirit, a fellow competitor and friend, that sparks something extraordinary. Such is the story of Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet—two Kenyan middle- and long-distance stars who, in pushing each other, rose beyond human limits to heroic heights, rewriting the record books in the process.

 

Faith Kipyegon, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and multiple world champion, has long been the queen of the 1500 meters. Her graceful yet powerful strides have thrilled fans for over a decade.

But in 2023 and 2024, Kipyegon did something no one expected—she broke not just one, but three world records within the span of a single season: the 1500m, 5000m, and one mile. Meanwhile, Beatrice Chebet, an emerging force in the 3000m and 5000m, carved her own path with record-breaking runs, culminating in a stunning world best in the women’s 5km road race.

 

Their respective journeys, while distinct, intertwined in profound ways. Kipyegon has often spoken of the inspiration she draws from her Kenyan teammates, and Chebet is chief among them.

Watching Chebet’s determination on the track, her explosive finishes and hunger to win, reminded Kipyegon that greatness has no ceiling. On the flip side, Chebet—eight years Kipyegon’s junior—grew up watching Faith dominate the world stage. Her humility, work ethic, and willingness to evolve her race strategy all stem from years of watching and learning from Kipyegon.

 

The turning point in their mutual inspiration came during training camps ahead of the 2023 Diamond League season. Under the watchful eye of coach Patrick Sang, both athletes spent weeks together at high-altitude camps in Iten, pushing through tough workouts. Friendly competition emerged, and each runner found a new gear—Kipyegon realizing she could dominate longer distances, and Chebet developing the endurance and tactical strength to match the best in the world.

 

In an interview after breaking the 5000m world record in Florence, Kipyegon humbly credited her training environment. “When you train with women like Beatrice Chebet,” she said, “you stop thinking about limits.” Likewise, Chebet remarked after her 2024 World Cross Country Championship win, “Faith showed me what a champion looks like—on and off the track.”

 

Their synergy is a reminder that elite sport is not only about individual talent. It’s also about relationships that challenge and uplift. Chebet’s rise has invigorated Kipyegon to take bold risks, while Kipyegon’s brilliance has shown Chebet the standard of a global icon.

 

Today, both women stand not just as medalists, but as role models for a new generation of African athletes. From humble beginnings in Kenya’s Rift Valley to global acclaim, their bond has elevated them from human to hero. And in doing so, they’ve given the world a masterclass in how friendship, rivalry, and mutual respect can unlock untapp

ed greatness.

 

 

 

Beatrice Chebet reprised her epic ’24 Pre meet duel with Gudaf Tsegay, this time at 5000 with a sub-14:00 result. (JEFF COHEN)

EUGENE, OREGON, July 05 — Two major World Records fell in the distances at the Prefontaine Classic, giving fans plenty to crow about in the star-studded 50th edition of America’s only DL meet.

 

Beatrice Chebet engraved her name permanently in the annals of the sport as the first woman to break 14:00 for 5000m. She did so convincingly, though the race still looked, with 200 left, like any of the top three could take it. After the pacers stepped off at halfway through, it was Chebet who led Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay and Agnes Ngetich in a breakaway from the rest. She passed 3000 in 8:22.9 and kept the record within her grasp as she ground through the laps.

 

Tsegay, the holder of the WR as well as a past world champion at 5000 and 10,000, looked like she was waiting for her moment to sprint past Chebet. Ngetich, with a relatively modest PR of 14:25.80, was the only one who showed any weakness, slipping back imperceptibly as the three ran past the bell. With 200 to go, it was Chebet who exploded into a furious sprint. Tsegay had no response and was passed by Ngetich.

 

Chebet, last summer’s double Olympic champion, dazzled with her sprint, passing three lapped runners on the stretch and hitting the line in 13:58.06 to slice 2.15 off Tsegay’s WR. Her last 200 took 28.9 as she added the 5000 mark to the 10,000 WR she already owns.

 

Said Chebet, “When I was coming here to Eugene, I was coming to prepare to run a World Record, and I said, ‘I have to try.’ I said, ‘If Faith is trying, why not me?’ And today, I’m so happy because I’ve achieved being the first woman to run under 14. I’m so happy for myself.”

 

Ngetich sliced 24-plus seconds off her best with her 14:01.29 to become No. 3 all-time, while Tsegay hit 14:04.41, the No. 5 performance ever. Far back in 4th was Margaret Akidor in 14:30.34, ostensibly nailing the final spot on Kenya’s Tokyo team, as this was their trial race. The only American in the field was Weini Kelati, who finished 10th in 14:38.15.

 

The other record came in the final race of the day, as Faith Kipyegon put the debate about Nike’s sub-4:00 effort behind her and produced what is possibly the finest 1500/mile ever. The Kenyan legend, the world’s top miler for the better part of the last decade, followed pacesetter Sage Hurta-Klecker through laps of 61.6 and 61.5. As Hurta-Klecker ran wide and urged her on, she passed 1000 in 2:34.3.

 

Kipyegon continued through 1200 in 3:04.7, only silver medalist Jessica Hull and Diribe Welteji staying close. Yet they could not match Kipyegon’s finish, as she lifted and flew through the last 300, covering those last three 100-meter segments in 15.1, 14.7 and 14.1. Her time of 3:48.68 — which converts to a 4:06.98 for a mile — sliced 0.36 off the 3:49.04 she had set in winning last summer’s Paris DL.

 

“I was preparing myself for something special, which was to run under 4:00 in a mile and I think I pushed myself, getting better and better toward the 1500, so I knew it was possible to still run under 3:49. I’m grateful to God that I made it today because I talked about it last week, and here I am breaking the World Record.”

 

She added, “The ladies are pushing me too because they are running quick now… and that is what I wanted, to motivate the younger generation to come and do even better. For them to follow me, it feels so great that they are pushing me as well to break records.”

 

Welteji clocked 3:51.44, No. 5 all-time. Hull hit 3:52.67. Georgia Hunter Bell ran 4th (3:54.76), while Nikki Hiltz (3:55.96) and Sinclaire Johnson (3:56.93) took the next 2 spots.

 

The non-DL 400, minus list leaders Salwa Eid Naser and Marileidy Paulino, was set up as a showcase for Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone. The 400H Olympic champion made up the stagger on Aaliyah Butler just after halfway and cruised to the win in 49.43. Butler held on for 2nd in 49.86. Said the winner, “It wasn’t my best work, but just happy to be here and happy to get another race under my belt.”

 

The 800 marked the return of Athing Mu-Nikolayev to the event that gave her Olympic gold four years ago. Yet it was Ethiopian Tsige Duguma, last summer’s silver medalist, who stole the show, her 1:57.10 edging South Africa’s Prudence Sekgodiso (1:57.18). Mu-Nikolayev, not ready for prime time, finished last in 2:03.44.

 

Winfred Yavi produced the third-fastest steeple of all time, her kick taking her to an 8:45.25 meet record. Behind her, Faith Cherotich clocked 8:48.71 and Peruth Chemutai 8:51.77 (the fastest 3rd ever) as 5 broke 9:00. Gabbi Jennings led the U.S. contingent in a PR 9:06.61 in 6th.

 

Said Yavi, “I just wanted to come execute whatever I have in the body, and I knew I was gonna be 1st. The plan was to come, run my own race, and dig in.”

 

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden continued her undefeated 100 season, holding off Olympic champion Julien Alfred in a 10.75–10.77 battle, fought into a 1.5 wind. Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith finished 3rd in 10.90. Defending world champion Sha’Carri Richardson loped home last in 11.19. “If I want to be world champion this year, I’m going to have to be able to bring it,” said Jefferson-Wooden.

 

Worth noting was the earlier invitational 100, where Jacious Sears ran 10.85 to top Aleia Hobbs (10.90) with the wind a much more favorable 1.7 at their backs.

 

In the 100H, a non-DL event, Ackera Nugent zipped 12.32 to beat Tobi Amusan’s 12.38, with Keni Harrison 3rd in 12.50.

 

Chase Jackson backed up her recent American Record just about perfectly, nailing the shot competition with her third round 68-8½ (20.94), missing the record by a mere centimeter. Behind her the quality ran deep, with Canadian Sarah Mitton (66-10¾/20.39), and Jaida Ross (66-½/20.13), also surpassing last year’s Olympic-winning mark. Ross moved to No. 6 all-time among Americans with her PR.

 

“It’s a little disappointing because I think it was one of the best women’s shot put competitions in recent history and it didn’t get any kind of attention. So it was a little irritating,” said Jackson. “I kind of wanted to throw a little further today, but I just felt like maybe the environment wasn’t there for it.”

 

Tara Davis-Woodhall saved it all for her final attempt in the long jump. In 3rd behind Malaika Mihambo at 23-0 (7.01) and Claire Bryant at 22-3¾ (6.80), she hit the board perfectly. Once off it, she soared out to a world-lead-tying 23-2½ (7.07) to snatch another late victory. She later quipped, “When people say field events are boring — was that boring to you?”

 

In the discus, Valarie Allman continued her undefeated streak with a meet record 231-11 (70.68). A promising runner-up was NCAA champion Cierra Jackson of Fresno State. She only got off one fair throw, but her PR 222-6 (67.82) put her ahead of Sandra Elkasević (219-8/66.97) and a number of other big names.

 

In the morning, Camryn Rogers came from behind in round 4 of the hammer with a Canadian Record 258-9 (78.88). The best response that Brooke Andersen had was a final throw 252-5 (76.95).

 

EUGENE DL WOMEN’S RESULTS

 

100(-1.5): 1. Melissa Jefferson (US) 10.75; 2. Julien Alfred (StL) 10.77; 3. Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith (CI) 10.90; 4. Tina Clayton (Jam) 11.02; 5. Favour Ofili (Ngr) 11.09; 6. Dina Asher-Smith (GB) 11.14; 7. TeeTee Terry (US) 11.17; 8. Maia McCoy (Lbr) 11.17; 9. Sha’Carri Richardson (US) 11.19.

 

Non-DL 100(1.7): 1. Jacious Sears (US) 10.85; 2. Aleia Hobbs (US) 10.90; 3. Thelma Davies (Lbr) 10.96.

 

Non-DL 400: 1. Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (US) 49.43; 2. Aaliyah Butler (US) 49.86; 3. Bella Whittaker (US) 50.81; 4. Rhasidat Adeleke (Ire) 51.33; 5. Dejanea Oakley (Jam) 51.45; 6. Rosey Effiong (US) 51.62.

 

800: 1. Tsige Duguma (Eth) 1:57.10; 2. Prudence Sekgodiso (SA) 1:57.16 =PR; 3. Halimah Nakaayi (Uga) 1:57.89; 4. Anais Bourgoin (Fra) 1:58.41; 5. Shafiqua Maloney (VIN) 1:58.49; 6. Raevyn Rogers (US) 1:58.49; 7. Jemma Reekie (GB) 1:58.66; 8. Worknesh Mesele (Eth) 1:59.72; 9. Mary Moraa (Ken) 2:00.51; 10. Athing Mu-Nikolayev (US) 2:03.44;… rabbit—Michaela Rose (US) (57.23).

 

1500: 1. Faith Kipyegon (Ken) 3:48.68 WR (old WR 3:49.04 Kipyegon ’24)

 

(61.9, 61.5 [2:03.4], 61.3 [3:04.7], 44.0) (finish: 14.2, 28.9, 59.1, 2:00.7, 3:02.4);

 

2. Diribe Welteji (Eth) 3:51.44 PR (5, x W);

 

3. Jessica Hull (Aus) 3:52.67; 4. Georgia Hunter Bell (GB) 3:54.76;

 

5. Nikki Hiltz (US) 3:55.96 (AL) (x, 4 A);

 

6. Sinclaire Johnson (US) 3:56.93; 7. Sarah Healy (Ire) 3:57.20; 8. Saron Berhe (Eth) 3:57.72 PR; 9. Freweyni Hailu (Eth) 3:57.74; 10. Emily Mackay (US) 3:57.91; 11. Susan Ejore-Sanders (Ken) 3:58.05; 12. Heather MacLean (US) 4:00.20; 13. Shelby Houlihan (US) 4:02.38; 14. Elise Cranny (US) 4:03.31;… rabbit—Sage Hurta-Klecker (US) (61.61, 61.56 [2:03.17]).

 

(best-ever mark-for-place: 9–11)

 

St: 1. Winfred Yavi (Bhr) 8:45.25 (WL) (x, 3 W);

 

2. Faith Cherotich (Ken) 8:48.71 PR (4, 5 W);

 

3. Peruth Chemutai (Uga) 8:51.77 (x, 8 W) (2:56.61, 5:55.39);

 

4. Norah Jeruto (Kaz) 8:59.46; 5. Sembo Almayew (Eth) 8:59.90 PR;

 

6. Gabbi Jennings (US) 9:06.61 PR (5, x A);

 

7. Alemnet Wale (Eth) 9:06.88 PR;

 

8. Kaylee Mitchell (US) 9:08.66 PR (7, x A);

 

9. Lexy Halladay (US) 9:09.47;… 13. Olivia Markezich (US) 9:17.95;…16. Courtney Wayment (US) 9:25.86.

 

(best-ever mark-for-place: 2–8)

 

5000: 1. Beatrice Chebet (Ken) 13:58.06 WR (old WR 14:00.21 Gudaf Tsegay [Eth] ’23)

 

(66.8, 67.2 [2:14.0], 66.9 [3:20.9], 67.2 [4:28.1], 67.4 [5:35.5], 67.0 [6:42.5], 66.6 [7:49.1], 68.6 [8:57.7], 69.2 [10:06.9], 67.2 [11:14.1], 68.0 [12:22.1], 67.1 [13:29.2], 28.9)

 

(finish: 14.3, 28.9, 61.8)

 

(kilos: 2:47.5, 2:48.0 [5:35.5], 2:47.4 [8:22.9], 2:51.2 [11:14.1], 2:44.0);

 

2. Agnes Ngetich (Ken) 14:01.29 PR (3, 3 W);

 

3. Gudaf Tsegay (Eth) 14:04.41 (x, 5 W);

 

4. Margaret Akidor (Ken) 14:30.34 PR; 5. Caroline Nyaga (Ken) 14:30.45; 6. Medina Eisa (Eth) 14:31.15;

 

7. Aleshign Baweke (Eth) 14:31.94 (x, 8 WJ);

 

8. Fantaye Belayneh (Eth) 14:33.27 PR; 9. Asayech Ayichew (Eth) 14:34.20; 10. Weini Kelati (US) 14:38.15;… rabbits—Klaudia Kazmierska (Pol) (2:47.07), Dorcus Ewoi (Ken) (5:35.37).

 

(best-ever mark-for-place: 1–3, 8, 11–14)

 

Non-DL 100H(0.4): 1. Ackera Nugent (Jam) 12.32; 2. Tobi Amusan (Ngr) 12.38; 3. Keni Harrison (US) 12.50; 4. Masai Russell (US) 12.50; 5. Danielle Williams (Jam) 12.51; 6. Tonea Marshall (US) 12.57; 7. Aaliyah McCormick (US) 12.98;… dnf—Alia Armstrong (US), Tia Jones (US).

 

Field Events

 

LJ: 1. Tara Davis-Woodhall (US) 23-2½ (7.07) (out WL, =WL) (AL) (21-4¾, 22-1½, 21-11¾, 22-1¾, f, 23-2½) (6.52, 6.74, 6.70, 6.75, f, 7.07);

 

2. Malaika Mihambo (Ger) 23-0 (7.01) (21-9½, f, 22-1½, 23-0, p, p) (6.64, f, 6.74, 7.01, p, p); 3. Claire Bryant (US) 22-3¾ (6.80); 4. Jasmine Moore (US) 22-¼ (6.71); 5. Alexis Brown (US) 22-¼ (6.71); 6. Ackelia Smith (Jam) 21-10¾ (6.67); 7. Ivana Španović (Ser) 21-4¾w (6.52); 8. Quanesha Burks (US) 21-¾ (6.42); 9. Monae’ Nichols (US) 20-9¼ (6.33).

 

SP: 1. Chase Jackson (US) 68-8½ (20.94) (x, 2 A) (63-7½, 65-3¼, 68-8½, 65-2, 66-8¾, 63-7½) (19.39, 19.89, 20.94, 19.86, 20.34, 19.39);

 

2. Sarah Mitton (Can) 66-10¾ (20.39);

 

3. Jaida Ross (US) 66-½ (20.13) PR (6, x A);

 

4. Maddi Wesche (NZ) 65-9¾ (20.06) PR; 5. Jessica Schilder (Neth) 65-8¾ (20.03); 6. Maggie Ewen (US) 64-8 (19.71); 7. Fanny Roos (Swe) 63-2¾ (19.27); 8. Lijiao Gong (Chn) 63-¾ (19.22); 9. Yemisi Ogunleye (Ger) 61-9½ (18.83); 10. Mya Lesnar (US) 59-9¾ (18.23).

 

DT: 1. Valarie Allman (US) 231-11 (70.68) (x, 7 A) (227-11, 213-11, 210-0, 231-11, 219-4, 227-0) (69.48, 65.21, 64.02, 70.68, 66.86, 69.18);

 

2. Cierra Jackson (US) 222-6 (67.82) PR (7, x A) (f, f, f, 222-6, f, f) (f, f, f, 67.82, f, f);

 

3. Sandra Elkasević (Cro) 219-8 (66.97); 4. Jorinde van Klinken (Neth) 217-2 (66.19); 5. Yaimé Pérez (Cub) 216-5 (65.96); 6. Lagi Tausaga (US) 213-1 (64.94); 7. Marike Steinacker (Ger) 208-9 (63.64); 8. Jayden Ulrich (US) 203-11 (62.15).

 

Non-DL HT: 1. Camryn Rogers (Can) 258-9 (78.88) NR (5, x W) (WL) (243-0, 249-6, 247-8, 258-9, 245-9, 250-2) (74.08, 76.04, 75.49, 78.88, 74.92, 76.25);

 

2. Brooke Andersen (US) 252-5 (76.95); 3. DeAnna Price (US) 247-2 (75.35); 4. Anita Włodarczyk (Pol) 245-1 (74.70); 5. Janee’ Kassanavoid (US) 243-4 (74.18); 6. Annette Echikunwoke (US) 238-9 (72.77); 7. Rachel Richeson (US) 237-2 (72.30).

 

 

Jeff Hollobaugh is a writer and stat geek who has been associated with T&FN in various capacities since 1987. He is the author of How To Race The Mile. He lives in Michigan where he can often be found announcing track meets in bad weather.

 

 

Kishane Thompson has sent a powerful message to the sprinting world with a blistering performance at the 2025 Prefontaine Classic, taking home the men’s 100m title in a jaw-dropping 9.85 seconds. The 23-year-old Jamaican, already touted as one of the sport’s rising stars, stunned a field of world-class sprinters to claim his biggest win yet on the Diamond League stage.

 

In a race stacked with elite talent—including American Trayvon Bromell, Kenyan Ferdinand Omanyala, and fellow Jamaican Oblique Seville—it was Thompson who held his nerve and delivered the goods when it mattered most. With a lightning-fast start and a smooth transition into top-end speed, Thompson took control of the race by the 60-meter mark and never looked back. His time of 9.85 seconds not only secured victory but also marked a new personal best, signaling his readiness to compete at the very highest level ahead of the Paris Olympics.

 

Speaking after the race, Thompson was both humble and confident. “I’ve been working hard all season for this moment,” he said. “I knew coming into Eugene that the competition would be fierce, but I trusted my training, stayed focused, and executed the race plan perfectly.”

 

Thompson also credited his support team and coach for helping him prepare both mentally and physically for such a major event. “My coach always tells me that the start sets the tone, and I felt like I nailed it today,” he added. “Once I was ahead, I just focused on staying relaxed and letting my speed carry me through.”

 

This win marks a significant milestone for Thompson, who has steadily risen through the ranks since bursting onto the scene in 2023. Injuries slowed his early development, but he has since returned stronger, displaying exceptional form throughout the 2025 season. With this victory, he has now positioned himself as Jamaica’s leading contender in the men’s 100m going into the Olympics—especially in the absence of a dominant figure like Usain Bolt.

 

Fans in Eugene witnessed not only a fast race but also the emergence of a potential new sprinting superstar. Thompson’s technical execution, mental composure, and explosive finish had the crowd on its feet. His time of 9.85 places him among the world leaders this season and adds fuel to the conversation around who might stand atop the podium in Paris.

 

When asked about the pressure of living up to Jamaica’s rich sprinting legacy, Thompson responded with poise. “It’s an honor to wear the colors of Jamaica. The legends before me—like Bolt, Blake, and Powell—have set a high standard. But I’m not here to replace anyone; I’m here to make my own mark.”

 

With the Olympic trials just around the corner, all eyes will now turn to how Thompson builds on this momentum. If the Prefontaine Classic was any indication, he’s not just a contender—he’s a serious threat.

 

“I’m not done yet,” Thompson concluded with a smile. “This is just the beginning.”

 

Indeed, if his performance in Eugene is a sign of things to come, then the world should brace itself for more explosive performances from Jamaica’s newes

t sprint sensation.

 

 

 

The 2025 Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, witnessed an electrifying performance as Olympic champion Letsile Tebogo stormed to a world-leading time in the men’s 200 meters. Representing Botswana, Tebogo clocked an astonishing 19.62 seconds, not only securing the victory but also sending a powerful message to the rest of the sprinting world ahead of the Paris Olympics. The time marks the fastest 200m run of the year and stands as one of the fastest times in history at Hayward Field.

 

Tebogo, just 21 years old, has quickly emerged as one of the sport’s brightest stars. After capturing global attention with his breakout performances in 2022 and 2023, including an Olympic silver medal and World Championship podium finishes, the young phenom has steadily matured into a complete sprinter. His win at the Prefontaine Classic wasn’t just about the time—it was a display of power, precision, and supreme confidence.

 

From the moment the gun fired, Tebogo burst out of the blocks with determination. He attacked the curve with controlled aggression, staying relaxed yet fast, and then entered the home straight with a commanding lead.

Behind him were some of the world’s best sprinters, including Americans Kenny Bednarek and Erriyon Knighton, but they had no answer for Tebogo’s top-end speed. As he crossed the finish line, the stadium erupted, aware that they had just witnessed something special.

 

What makes this performance even more impressive is the consistency Tebogo has shown in 2025. After dominating the African circuit earlier in the season, he has continued to lower his times and peak at just the right moment. Many analysts believe this latest performance sets him up as the clear favorite for the 200m title in Paris. His blend of speed endurance and technique gives him a lethal edge, especially in championship settings where rounds matter.

 

NBC Sports, covering the Prefontaine Classic, highlighted the significance of the race, labeling Tebogo’s run as one of the defining moments of the meet. In his post-race interview, Tebogo humbly acknowledged the work it took to reach this point. “It’s all about discipline and believing in the training,” he said. “My coach and I had a plan, and we’re sticking to it. This is just one step toward the bigger goal this summer.”

 

Tebogo’s rise also holds symbolic value for African athletics. Historically, African nations have dominated distance events, but sprinters like Tebogo are shifting the narrative. He now stands as a beacon for young athletes across the continent, proving that African sprinters can compete with—and beat—the best in the world at all distances.

 

As the world builds toward the 2025 Paris Olympics, all eyes will be on Letsile Tebogo. With a world lead under his belt and growing momentum, he’s not just a contender—he’s a favorite. If his performance at the Prefontaine Classic is any indication, the 200m crown in Paris may soon belong

to Botswana.

 

 

 

Sha’Carri Richardson once again proved why she is one of the most electrifying sprinters in track and field, delivering a powerful statement both on and off the track at the Wanda Diamond League meeting in Eugene. Running a season’s best (SB) performance in the women’s 100 meters, Richardson clocked an impressive time of 10.83 seconds—reminding the world that self-belief is not just a mindset, but a weapon.

 

Following her performance, Richardson spoke candidly in a post-race interview, delivering a message that resonated far beyond the sport: “If you don’t believe in yourself, nobody else will.” These words weren’t just motivational fluff—they were a glimpse into the mindset of an athlete who has battled criticism, setbacks, and pressure with unyielding determination. Her performance at Eugene was more than just about the time; it was a personal triumph and a validation of hard work, resilience, and inner confidence.

 

From the moment she stepped onto the Hayward Field track, Richardson looked focused and ready. Her explosive start and strong finish separated her from a talented field that included fellow top sprinters from the U.S. and abroad. The Wanda Diamond League meeting in Eugene was a critical stop on the road to the 2025 World Championships, and Sha’Carri’s showing sent a clear message—she’s not only in form, but hungry for more.

 

The 10.83 run was her fastest time of the season so far and one of the top times in the world this year. But perhaps more importantly, it showed consistency—something Richardson has been working hard to achieve. Unlike in past seasons where flashes of brilliance were sometimes followed by inconsistency, 2025 is shaping up to be a year where Sha’Carri is putting all the pieces together at the right time.

 

In the interview that followed, Richardson didn’t just thank her coaches and team—she emphasized the importance of self-belief and mental toughness. “There’s always going to be noise,” she said, “but what matters is how you respond. I know who I am. I believe in my abilities. And I’m just getting started.”

 

The crowd in Eugene gave her a rousing reception, showing that her connection with fans remains as strong as ever. And it’s no wonder why—Richardson brings not only elite athleticism but also unapologetic authenticity. Whether she’s crossing the line first or facing challenges, she does it her way.

 

Looking ahead, all eyes will be on Sha’Carri as she continues her Diamond League campaign and prepares for the U.S. Trials. Her performance in Eugene has solidified her status as a favorite not just for the American team, but for gold on the world stage. And with her mindset locked in, Richardson is a dangerous competitor for anyone lining up next to her.

 

In a sport where milliseconds matter, belief can make the difference. Sha’Carri Richardson isn’t just running fast—she’s running free, focused, and fueled by faith in herself. Eugene was just another reminder: when you believe, nothing

is impossible.

 

 

 

Sha’Carri Richardson continues to command attention on the track and off it. At the 2025 Prefontaine Classic, the reigning world champion in the women’s 100 meters delivered another compelling performance and followed it up with a post-race interview that made headlines for both its honesty and personality. Known for her flair, speed, and resilience, Richardson once again reminded the world why she remains one of the sport’s brightest stars.

 

The race itself was stacked with elite talent. Lining up against formidable sprinters like Julien Alfred of St. Lucia, Melissa Jefferson from the U.S., and Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith, Richardson had no room for error. As the gun fired, she exploded out of the blocks with her trademark quick reaction and high knees driving powerfully down the Hayward Field track. She maintained control through the middle of the race and managed to fend off a late charge from Alfred to take the win in a time of 10.81 seconds—a season’s best.

 

The crowd erupted as she crossed the line first, and Richardson celebrated with her signature flair, arms outstretched and hair flowing in the breeze. She soaked in the applause, knowing each victory not only adds to her resume but sends a message: she’s here to stay and aiming for Olympic glory in Paris.

 

Following the race, Sha’Carri’s interview drew almost as much attention as her performance. Standing trackside, visibly emotional yet confident, she spoke about the journey she’s been on over the past year. “This season has been about staying focused, staying grounded, and understanding who I am beyond the noise,” she said. “Every time I step on this track, I represent more than just myself. I represent every little Black girl who’s been told she’s too loud, too different, or too much.”

 

When asked about her mindset going into the Prefontaine Classic, she admitted she felt the pressure. “You can’t line up with the best in the world and not feel it. But I’ve learned to embrace that pressure—it sharpens me. And I feed off it.”

 

Richardson also addressed the critics who doubted her in the past. “Let them talk,” she smiled. “I let my legs do the answering now.”

 

Her words carried the weight of someone who has battled adversity and emerged stronger. From her suspension before the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 to public scrutiny and personal loss, Richardson’s comeback story is one of the most compelling in track and field today. But she made it clear that her comeback isn’t over—it’s still unfolding.

 

Sha’Carri also expressed her excitement for the Paris Olympics. “I’m not peaking yet. That was a strong run, but trust me—we’re just getting started. Paris is the goal, and I’m coming for gold.”

 

As she walked away from the interview, fans were left with the image of a woman fully embracing her identity, her talent, and her destiny. With her speed on the track and her authenticity off it, Sha’Carri Richardson continues to be more than a sprinter—she’s a symbol of perseverance, pride, and power.

 

At the Prefontaine Classic, she didn’t just run the 100 meters. Sh

e made a statement.

 

 

Chebet & Kipyegon break world records in Eugene

Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet.

Image caption, Faith Kipyegon (left) and Beatrice Chebet (right) have seven Olympic medals between them

 

Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet broke world records in spectacular style at the Diamond League meeting in Eugene, Oregon.

 

Kipyegon stormed to victory the women’s 1500m with a time of three minutes 48.68 seconds – breaking her own world record by 0.36 seconds.

 

The achievement comes just over a week after the three-time Olympic 1500m champion, 31, failed in her bid to become the first woman in history to run a sub-four-minute mile.

 

Her compatriot Chebet set a new women’s 5,000m record with a time of 13:58.06, shaving more than two seconds off the previous record set by Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay in Eugene two years ago.

 

Chebet, 25, now holds both world records and Olympic titles in the 5,000m and 10,000m.

 

“When I was coming here to Eugene, I was coming to prepare to run a world record,” she said. “I’m so happy.”

 

The pair were among 17 individual champions from the Paris Olympics and 14 world-record holders in action in a star-studded event, also known as the Prefontaine Classic.

 

‘Brilliant’ Kipyegon breaks women’s 1500m world record

 

Matt Hudson-Smith was the highlight on a mixed evening for British athletes, posting a season’s best 44.10 to win the men’s 400m ahead of American duo Christopher Bailey and Jacory Patterson.

 

British record holder Zharnel Hughes also ran a season’s best of 9.91 to finish second in the men’s 100m, behind Olympic silver medallist Kishane Thompson of Jamaica, who posted a time of 9.85.

 

Jemma Reekie equalled her season’s best of 1:58.66 to finish seventh in the women’s 800m. Paris gold medallist Keely Hodgkinson, whose return from a hamstring injury was delayed by a setback in April, did not compete.

 

Ethiopa’s Tsige Duguma, silver medallist behind Hodgkinson in Paris, won in a time of 1:57.10.

 

Dina Asher-Smith finished seventh in the women’s 100m, with American Melissa Jefferson-Wooden surging to victory in 10.75 and ahead of Olympic champion Julien Alfred.

 

Jake Wightman finished eighth and Neil Gourley 12th in the Bowerman Mile. The race was won in stunning fashion by Dutchman Niels Laros, who reeled in American Yared Nuguse in the final 10 metres and pipped him on the line by 0.01 seconds.

 

Elsewhere, Sweden’s world record holder Armand Duplantis comfortably won the men’s pole vault with a height of 6.00m.

 

Two-time Olympic 400m hurdles champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone equalled a season’s best 49.43 to hold off fellow Americans Aaliyah Butler and Isabella Whittaker.

 

The Diamond League will move to Monaco next before the series visits the UK for a sold-out London Athletics Meet on 19 July.

 

The finals will take place in Zurich on 27 and 28 August – just over a fortnight before the start of the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

 

‘That’s a big win!’ – Hudson-Smith wins men’s 400m with season’s best

 

 

Double Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet became the first woman in history to cover 5000m inside 14 minutes, clocking a world record* of 13:58.06 at the Prefontaine Classic – a Wanda Diamond League meeting – in Eugene on Saturday (5).

 

The Kenyan, returning to the scene of her world 10,000m record from last year, was tracked for most of the race by Gudaf Tsegay, who held the world record prior to today, and Agnes Jebet Ngetich.

 

They operated at world record pace from the outset with the first 1000m covered in 2:47.07. The second pacemaker led the field through 2000m in 5:35.37 and dropped out soon after, by which point Chebet, Tsegay and Ngetich had broken away from the rest of the field.

 

Chebet passed 3000m in 8:22.96, 1.04 seconds inside the pace required for a sub-14-minute run. The pace dropped slightly for the next kilometre as 4000m was reached in 11:14.12, but Chebet had saved something for the closing stages.

 

She kicked hard with 200 metres to go. Tsegay’s challenge began to fade and she was soon passed by Ngetich, but Chebet was away and clear and crossed the line in 13:58.06, taking 2.15 seconds off Tsegay’s world record. Ngetich took second place in 14:01.29, the third-fastest time in history, and Tsegay placed third in 14:04.41.

 

“I’m so happy to become the first woman to run under 14 minutes,” said Chebet. “After Rome (where she ran 14:03.69), I knew that I was capable of running a world record. I told myself, ‘if Faith is trying for a world record in Eugene, why not me too?’”

 

Just 80 minutes after Chebet’s record-breaking run, Kenyan compatriot and fellow Olympic gold medallist Faith Kipyegon re-entered the record books by breaking her own world 1500m record with 3:48.68*.

 

The multiple world and Olympic champion had made history of sorts last week by producing the fastest mile performance in history, albeit in an unofficial and unratifiable exhibition event.

 

Today, however, there was no doubt over the authenticity of Kipyegon’s performance as she took 0.36 off the record she set in Paris last year.

 

Kipyegon tracked the pacemaker closely through 400m (1:01.61) and 800m (2:03.17), but she had Olympic silver medallist Jessica Hull for company. The Australian was still just a stride or two behind Kipyegon going into the final lap, but the multiple world record-holder kicked hard on the back straight to break free.

 

There was no catching Kipyegon as she charged down the home straight, crossing the line in 3:48.68 to win by almost three seconds. Ethiopia’s Diribe Welteji came through for second (3:51.44) ahead of Hull (3:52.67) and Olympic bronze medallist Georgia Hunter Bell (3:54.76).

 

Faith Kipyegon breaks the world 1500m record in Eugene

Faith Kipyegon breaks the world 1500m record in Eugene (© Wanda Diamond League

 

 

 

There was very nearly another world record in a distance event, thanks to Winfred Yavi in the women’s 3000m steeplechase, but the world and Olympic steeplechase champion had to be content with a meeting record of 8:45.25 – the third-fastest performance in history.

 

The Bahraini athlete had positioned herself behind Uganda’s Peruth Chemutai for most of the way as the 2021 Olympic champion went through 1000m in 2:56.61 and 2000m in 5:55.39. But Yavi made her presence known in the closing stages and opened up an unassailable lead.

 

She almost collapsed over the finish line in 8:45.25, less than a second shy of the world record, as Kenya’s Faith Cherotich came through for second place in 8:48.71 ahead of Chemutai (8:51.77). For the first time ever, five women finished inside nine minutes.

 

Records tumble on day of big throws

Meeting records, world leads and Diamond League records were broken in almost every throwing event on the programme.

 

The men’s hammer, the very first discipline on the programme, set the tone for the day. Rudy Winkler unleashed a third-round throw of 83.16m to break his own US record and the Diamond League record, ending Ethan Katzberg’s winning streak in the process. The world and Olympic champion from Canada was second with 81.73m.

 

Little more than an hour later, world and Olympic champion Camryn Rogers broke the Diamond League record in the women’s event, sending her hammer out to 78.88m in the fourth round to beat US duo Brooke Andersen (76.95m) and DeAnna Price (75.35m).

 

Two-time world champion Chase Jackson came within a centimetre of her recent US record to win the women’s shot put with a meeting record of 20.94m.

 

For the first time since the 1988 Olympic final, five women threw beyond 20 metres. World indoor champion Sarah Mitton was second with 20.39m ahead of USA’s Jaida Ross (20.13m), New Zealand’s Maddison-Lee Wesche (20.06m) and European champion Jessica Schilder (20.03m).

 

The men’s event also proved to be one of the highest standard shot put contests in history; for the first time ever, five men threw beyond 22 metres.

 

Two-time world champion Joe Kovacs won with a world-leading 22.48m ahead of US compatriot Roger Steen (22.11m) and Nigeria’s Chuku Enekwechi, who set an African record of 22.10m.

 

Olympic champion Valarie Allman continued her unbeaten streak in 2025 in the women’s discus. She broke the meeting record with her opening throw of 69.48m, then went even farther in round four with 70.68m.

 

Perhaps the biggest surprise of the contest came in the form of NCAA champion Cierra Jackson, who managed just one valid attempt, 67.82m, but it added two metres to her PB and was enough to take second place on what was her Diamond League debut.

 

World record-holder Mykolas Alekna was similarly dominant in the men’s discus. The Lithuanian won with 70.97m – the second-best throw in Diamond League history – to avenge his recent NCAA defeat to Jamaica’s Ralford Mullings, who was second here with 68.98m.

 

Jefferson-Wooden ends Alfred’s winning streak

Heading into this weekend, Julien Alfred had won all seven of her races so far in 2025. But the Olympic champion couldn’t quite maintain that streak in a close race with world leader Melissa Jefferson-Wooden. Despite a -1.5m/s wind, the Olympic bronze medallist clocked a winning time of 10.75 – the fastest time ever recorded into a headwind stronger than -1.0m/s. Alfred was second in 10.77.

 

Jefferson-Wooden got off to the best start and managed to maintain it to the end. Marie-Josee Ta Lou-Smith was third in 10.90 in a race where world champion Sha’Carri Richardson was ninth (11.19). Earlier in the day, Jacious Sears had won an invitational race in 10.85, albeit in more conducive conditions (1.7m/s).

 

Alison dos Santos got the better of US rival Rai Benjamin in the 400m hurdles. The Brazilian, who won the world title on this track in 2022, produced a season’s best of 46.65 to win by 0.06 over the Olympic champion.

 

The winning margin was the same in the women’s 100m hurdles as Jamaica’s Ackera Nugent won in 12.32 from world record-holder Tobi Amusan (12.38). USA’s Kendra Harrison was third (12.50).

 

Following a late withdrawal from USA’s Kenny Bednarek, Olympic champion Letsile Tebogo of Botswana ran a world-leading 19.76 to win the men’s 200m ahead of USA’s Courtney Lindsey (19.87) and Alexander Ogando of the Dominican Republic (19.94).

 

Olympic silver medallist and world leader Kishane Thompson lived up to expectations to win the men’s 100m in 9.85 (0.4m/s). Britain’s Zharnel Hughes finished strongly to take second place in 9.91 ahead of Trayvon Bromell (9.94).

 

Elsewhere in the sprints, Olympic silver medallist Matt Hudson-Smith won the men’s 400m in a season’s best of 44.10 from world indoor champion Chris Bailey (44.15). Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone took the women’s event in 49.44 ahead of US compatriot Aaliyah Butler (49.86).

 

Laros comes from behind to win Bowerman Mile

For almost four laps of the men’s mile, it looked as though Yared Nuguse would become the first US winner of the race since 2006. But the Olympic 1500m bronze medallist was caught just before the line by Niels Laros as the Dutch youngster won by 0.01.

 

Nuguse had been followed closely by in-form French runner Azeddine Habz for most of the way. But just as Habz’s challenge faded in the closing stages, Laros managed to break free from the chase pack and came motoring down the home straight to catch Nuguse and win in a national record of 3:45.94. Nuguse was second (3:45.95) and Habz third (3:46.65) in a race where a record 13 men finished inside 3:50.

 

There was another close finish in the women’s 800m, where Olympic silver medallist Tsige Duguma managed to hold off world indoor champion Prudence Sekgodiso, 1:57.10 to 1:57.16. World champion Mary Moraa (2:00.51) and 2021 Olympic champion Athing Mu-Nikolayev (2:03.44) were the last two athletes to cross the line.

 

Olympic champion Tara Davis-Woodhall produced a clutch jump of 7.07m in the final round of the women’s long jump to steal victory from two-time world champion Malaika Mihambo (7.01m).

 

Mondo Duplantis was a comfortable winner of the men’s pole vault with 6.00m and ended with three attempts at a would-be world record of 6.29m, but it wasn’t to be.

 

 

 

 

 

The Jamaican champion cemented his status as the world number one sprinter with victory in 9.85 seconds ahead of Zharnel Hughes and Trayvon Bromell.

 

Kishane Thompson took victory in the 100m at the 2025 Prefontaine Classic

 

 

Kishane Thompson showed he remains in great shape as he took the 100m at the Prefontaine Classic on Saturday (5 July).

 

Fresh from becoming the sixth fastest man in history at the Jamaican nationals, Paris 2024 silver medallist Thompson powered clear of his rivals after making a fast start.

 

The 23-year-old lost his form in the closing metres, but he had plenty in hand as he crossed the line in 9.85 seconds. Zharnel Hughes finished strongly to take second in a season’s best 9.91 ahead of Trayvon Bromell (9.94).

 

Brandon Hicklin (9.98) also ducked under 10 seconds for fourth place from Ackeem Blake. South African youngster Bayanda Walaza faded late on into sixth place in the Eugene Diamond League athletics meet.

 

Noah Lyles may have taken gold in Paris, but Thompson believes he has improvement to come and that the world title is his to lose in Tokyo in September.

 

“I’m the only one that can stop me,” he told reporters afterwards. “I don’t say that to brag but – to be honest – once I better my execution, amazing things are going to happen.

 

“It’s not just one component, it’s putting all of them together, from the start to the finish. Because I can work on one component, but if I can’t put them together it doesn’t make sense.”

 

On the race at Hayward Field, he said, “It was a fierce competition, they run me to the line. I’m really appreciative of it. It will help me to get better, step by step, and vice versa for everyone. It’s an amazing crowd. I didn’t know so many people over here actually knew me.”