TOKYO: The World Athletics Championships concluded with a spectacular showcase of American dominance, as stars Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, Noah Lyles, and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone signed off in stunning fashion, clinching multiple gold medals under rainy skies.
Jefferson-Wooden emerged as the standout performer, securing the women’s sprint double before anchoring the U.S. to a memorable 4x100m relay triumph. Her achievement places her alongside Jamaica’s sprint queen Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who ended her illustrious career with a silver medal, passing the baton to the next generation.
Noah Lyles and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone too delivered emphatic performances, each adding relay golds to their individual titles — Lyles in the 200m and McLaughlin-Levrone in the 400m. Their dominance underscored America’s grip on global athletics, though challenges from across the globe ensured the finale was filled with drama.
Among the highlights was Botswana’s historic 4x400m relay victory, marking the first time an African nation claimed gold in that event. A breathtaking final leg from Busang Collen Kebinatshipi stunned the American favourites and secured a proud moment for African athletics.
Kenya also made its mark, sweeping every women’s middle and long-distance race, with Lilian Odira breaking a 42-year-old record in the 800m. Meanwhile, Germany’s Leo Neugebauer stole the decathlon crown, his season-best javelin throw sealing the victory in a gripping contest.
The championships were not only about medals but also about farewells. Jamaican legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s final run was symbolic — a passing of the torch as she closed her extraordinary career with grace, determination, and inspiration.
For the U.S., the Tokyo finale will be remembered as a golden chapter, underlining their continued dominance in track and field while celebrating moments that defined athletic history.
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