The Wanda Diamond League Final in Zurich produced one of its most dramatic storylines yet, as Bahrain’s Salwa Eid Naser stunned reigning Olympic and World Champion Marileidy Paulino in the women’s 400m. In a showdown that had been hyped as Paulino’s victory lap to cap a dominant season, Naser defied expectations and delivered a blistering performance that reminded the world why she remains one of the most gifted quarter-milers of her generation.
Paulino entered Zurich as the heavy favorite. The Dominican Republic star has been the face of the 400m over the last two seasons, showcasing unmatched consistency and strength over the one-lap event. With victories at both the Paris Olympics and World Championships, she seemed almost unbeatable heading into the Diamond League Final. Many expected her to add the Diamond Trophy as a crowning achievement.
But Naser had other plans. Known for her explosive starts and fearless front-running style, she wasted no time asserting herself. Coming out of the blocks aggressively, Naser surged ahead through the opening 200m, forcing Paulino to chase from behind. The Zurich crowd erupted as the two athletes separated from the field, turning the race into the head-to-head clash everyone had anticipated.
By the 300m mark, it appeared Paulino was beginning to close the gap, her trademark endurance starting to show. But in a shocking twist, Naser found another gear on the home straight. With her powerful stride holding steady, she resisted Paulino’s late charge and crossed the line first, arms raised in a mix of triumph and disbelief. The final times only added to the drama: Naser clocked a season’s best of 48.70, while Paulino followed closely with 48.95, still one of the fastest times of her career.
For Naser, this victory carried layers of significance. The 2019 World Champion had faced setbacks in recent years, including time away from the sport that raised questions about her future at the elite level. Zurich was not just a race; it was a statement that she remains a force to be reckoned with. To defeat Paulino—arguably the most dominant 400m runner of the last two years—on such a stage was a reminder of her immense talent and mental fortitude.
Paulino, though disappointed, handled the defeat with grace. In her post-race comments, she acknowledged Naser’s brilliance while reaffirming her own commitment to maintaining her dominance in the event. For her, Zurich may serve as motivation heading into 2026, where new rivalries and championships await.
Beyond the individuals, this race signaled a resurgence in the women’s 400m. For years, the event has searched for a consistent rivalry capable of captivating global audiences. With Naser’s comeback and Paulino’s established supremacy, the sport now has two athletes capable of pushing each other to unprecedented levels. Their duel in Zurich was a preview of battles to come, perhaps even redefining what it will take to win gold in future championships.
In the end, Zurich 2025 will be remembered not just for a fast time or a Diamond Trophy, but for the shockwave Salwa Eid Naser sent through the athletics world. By toppling Marileidy Paulino, she reignited the excitement around the 400m and reminded fans that in track and field, no favorite is ever truly safe.
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