World Athletics Championship Preview: A Showcase of Elite Talent
The 2025 World Athletics Championships, scheduled from 13 to 21 September in Tokyo, promises to be a showcase of elite talent and fierce competition across track and field events. With athletes from around the globe vying for supremacy, the championships are set to feature thrilling performances and potential record-breaking feats.
African Athletes to Watch
Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon continues to dominate the middle-distance scene, holding the world record in the 1500m and 5000m. Her consistent performances make her a strong contender for gold in both events.
Beatrice Chebet, also from Kenya, is the reigning Olympic champion in both the 5000m and 10,000m. As the current world number one in both distances, she aims to add World Championship titles to her impressive resume.
Janeth Chepngetich, another Kenyan standout, clinched gold in the 10,000m at the African Games in 2024 and has shown strong form leading up to the championships. Her recent personal best of 14:40.25 in the 5000m at the Prefontaine Classic underscores her readiness.
Freweyni Hailu of Ethiopia is the 2024 World Indoor 1500m champion and 2025 World Indoor 3000m champion. Her versatility across distances makes her a formidable competitor on the global stage.
Biniam Mehary, a rising Ethiopian talent, has set multiple under-20 world records in the 1500m, 3000m, and 10,000m. His rapid ascent indicates a promising future in middle and long-distance events.
Akani Simbine of South Africa continues to impress in the sprints, becoming the first athlete to run sub-10 seconds in the 100m for 11 consecutive years. His consistency and speed make him a strong medal contender.
Prudence Sekgodiso, also from South Africa, has made significant strides in the 800m, with notable victories in the Diamond League. Her tactical racing and strength position her as a potential finalist.
Global Stars to Watch
Jakob Ingebrigtsen of Norway has been in exceptional form, setting world records in the indoor 1500m and mile. His dominance in middle-distance events makes him a favourite for gold.
Melissa Jefferson-Wooden of the USA continues her unbeaten streak in the 100m, recently clocking 10.76 seconds in Brussels. Her explosive speed sets her apart in the sprinting world.
Sha’Carri Richardson, the reigning world champion in the 100m, remains a formidable force in sprinting, known for her dynamic performances and competitive spirit.
Event Highlights
The championships will feature a diverse array of events, including:
• Sprints: The men’s and women’s 100m and 200m races are expected to be highly competitive, with athletes like Simbine, Jefferson-Wooden, and Richardson leading the charge.
• Middle-Distance: The 1500m and 5000m events will showcase talents like Kipyegon, Chebet, and Ingebrigtsen, promising thrilling races.
• Long-Distance: The 10,000m and marathon events will feature endurance specialists aiming for podium finishes.
• Field Events: The javelin, pole vault, and long jump competitions will highlight technical prowess and athleticism.
With a rich tapestry of talent from around the world, the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo are set to deliver unforgettable moments and historic achievements. Athletes from Africa, in particular, are poised to shine, continuing the continent’s legacy of excellence in track and field.
Broadcast details
Times CAT
Saturday 13 September – Sunday 21 September
Morning Sessions (≈ 00:40) and Afternoon Sessions (≈ 10:20) – LIVE on SuperSport Africa
