What Are the Can't-Miss Events at the World Championships?

Great Britain is set to showcase its athletics prowess at the Tokyo World Athletics Championships, following a remarkable performance at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where the country clinched 10 medals. This event will feature 147 medals across 49 events, with some of the world's most talented athletes vying for glory. Fans can expect thrilling competitions, particularly in the 800m, 100m, and decathlon events, as top contenders battle it out for the titles.

Last updated: 21 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the Tokyo World Athletics Championships

• Great Britain won 10 medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics, boosting their hopes for the upcoming championships.
• Keely Hodgkinson, the Olympic 800m champion, returns from injury as a strong contender.
• World champion Noah Lyles aims for his third consecutive title in the 100m sprint.
• High-profile head-to-heads are expected, notably between Josh Kerr and Jakob Ingebrigtsen in the 1500m.
• Katarina Johnson-Thompson and Nafi Thiam will compete for the heptathlon crown.

Unveiling the Excitement: What to Expect

The World Athletics Championships are a major highlight in the global athletics calendar, and the Tokyo edition promises to be no different. With a total prize pot of $8.5 million (£6.3 million) and 147 medals up for grabs, the stakes are high. Events will take place over nine days, featuring a variety of track and field disciplines that will captivate audiences worldwide.

Keely Hodgkinson: The 800m Gold Medal Favourite

One of the standout athletes to watch is Keely Hodgkinson, who made headlines at the Paris 2024 Olympics by winning gold in the 800m. After recovering from two torn hamstrings, Hodgkinson is back in action and has already clocked the fastest time of 2025 in a recent competition. Set to compete in the 800m heats on Thursday, 18 September, she is anticipated to face fierce competition from Olympic silver medallist Tsige Duguma of Ethiopia and reigning champion Mary Moraa from Kenya.

Noah Lyles: Chasing Glory in the 100m

Noah Lyles, the American sprinter who took gold in the 100m at the Paris Olympics, is aiming for his third consecutive world title in Tokyo. Despite a season-best of 9.90 seconds ranking only 11th globally this year, Lyles is known for his ability to perform under pressure. He will contend against Jamaica's Kishane Thompson, who holds the fastest time of the year at 9.75 seconds. Additionally, British athlete Zharnel Hughes is looking to add to his medal tally after securing bronze in 2023.

Dramatic Showdowns in the Sprints and Middle Distances

Women's 100m: A Clash of Titans

The women’s 100m event is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, featuring St Lucia’s Olympic champion Julien Alfred and American Sha'Carri Richardson, who aims to defend her title. Both athletes are expected to dominate, but don’t overlook British competitors like Dina Asher-Smith and Daryl Neita, who are keen to chase podium finishes. With Richardson clocking an impressive 10.65 seconds this season, fans can expect a breathtaking race.

1500m: Kerr vs. Ingebrigtsen

In the 1500m, defending champion Josh Kerr will face off against Norwegian star Jakob Ingebrigtsen. Their rivalry has been intense, with Kerr previously edging out Ingebrigtsen at the world championships. However, both athletes have had disrupted seasons, making this event unpredictable. The absence of Olympic bronze medallist Yared Nuguse, who failed to qualify, adds another layer of intrigue to this contest.

Heptathlon Showdown: Johnson-Thompson vs. Thiam

The heptathlon is another must-watch event, with Great Britain's Katarina Johnson-Thompson taking on Belgian athlete Nafi Thiam. Both athletes have dominated the event in recent years, splitting gold medals between them at previous championships. Their rivalry is heightened by Johnson-Thompson's recent Olympic medal win and Thiam’s past injuries. The competition is poised to be fierce as both aim for a third world title.

Matthew Hudson-Smith: The 400m Hopeful

Matthew Hudson-Smith’s journey has been riddled with near-misses, yet he remains a formidable force in the 400m. Having narrowly missed Olympic gold by four-hundredths of a second, he seeks redemption in Tokyo. His season-best of 44.10 seconds puts him in contention, but he faces tough competition, including American champion Jacory Patterson. Hudson-Smith's teammate, Charlie Dobson, is also a contender after a recent victory over him in the London Diamond League.

The Impact of the Championships

The Tokyo World Athletics Championships not only serve as a stage for individual athletes but also represent a significant opportunity for Great Britain to solidify its reputation in global athletics. The outcomes could influence selection for future international competitions, including the next Olympics and World Championships.

As the world tunes in to witness these athletes in action, the emphasis will be on performance, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. The stakes are high, and the anticipation is palpable; this championship could redefine careers and inspire the next generation of athletes.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Athletes?

The outcomes of the Tokyo Championships will undoubtedly shape the future of many athletes, especially those who excel. Success in Tokyo can lead to increased visibility, sponsorship opportunities, and a strong foundation for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics. As competitors strive for their best performances, fans can expect dramatic storylines to unfold, highlighting the triumphs and challenges faced by these elite athletes.

FAQs

When do the World Athletics Championships take place in Tokyo?

The World Athletics Championships in Tokyo are scheduled to begin on Saturday, 13 September 2023, and will run for nine days until 21 September 2023.

How many events will be contested at the Championships?

A total of 49 events will be contested across the Championships, with 147 medals available for athletes to compete for.

Who are the top British athletes to watch?

Key British athletes to watch include Keely Hodgkinson in the 800m, Noah Lyles in the 100m, and Katarina Johnson-Thompson in the heptathlon, among others.

What is the prize money for the Championships?

The total prize pot for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo is $8.5 million (£6.3 million), which will be distributed among medal winners.

How does the Championships impact future competitions?

Performance at the Championships can significantly influence athlete selection for future international competitions, including the next Olympics and World Championships.