Monaco, World – In a star-studded ceremony that captured global attention, World Athletics has crowned Mondo Duplantis and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone as the World Athletes of the Year, recognising their record-breaking dominance throughout the 2025 season. The announcement has set the sporting world abuzz, celebrating two athletes who have rewritten history and elevated track and field to new heights.
Armand “Mondo” Duplantis — Sweden’s unstoppable pole vault champion — enjoyed a near-perfect year marked by extraordinary achievements. The 25-year-old not only defended his world title in Tokyo but also remained undefeated across 16 competitions, delivering consistent masterclass performances. He broke the world record four times in a single season, ultimately soaring over an unbelievable 6.30 metres, a height previously unimaginable in the sport. His triumph also secured his fifth straight Diamond League title, further sealing his position as the greatest pole-vaulter in modern athletics.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Duplantis said he felt the award was “extra special for all field event athletes,” adding that he plans to cherish this recognition for a long time.
On the women’s side, the spotlight shone brightly on American superstar Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, whose 2025 campaign has been hailed as one of the most extraordinary in track history. She stormed to victory in the 400m final at the World Championships in Tokyo, clocking a breathtaking 47.78 seconds — the second-fastest time ever recorded. But her achievements didn’t stop there. McLaughlin-Levrone also became the first athlete in history to win world titles in both the 400m flat and the 400m hurdles, cementing her status as a once-in-a-generation talent.
Her dominance was further proven as she anchored the United States’ 4x400m relay team to a gold medal, displaying her unmatched versatility and composure under pressure. Reflecting on the honour, she said she was “honestly blown away,” calling the Tokyo season “a year of breaking boundaries — physically, mentally, and historically.”
The dual victory for Duplantis and McLaughlin-Levrone marks a defining moment for athletics, showcasing two athletes who have not only shattered records but also inspired millions around the world. Their accomplishments signal a new era — one where limits continue to be challenged and sporting excellence is being rewritten in real time.
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