The stage is set for an epic showdown as World Athletics announces the finalists for its prestigious 2025 Athlete of the Year awards. Get ready for a thrilling ride as we unveil the contenders who will battle it out for the ultimate crown in their respective categories.
The Competition Heats Up:
In a highly anticipated reveal, the top contenders have emerged from a long list of exceptional athletes. The finalists, comprising two men and two women in each of the three fields, are ready to give it their all. But who will take the top spot?
Track Athletes:
- Femke Bol (NED): The Dutch sensation and world 400m hurdles champion is a force to be reckoned with.
- Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (USA): A true American star, she dominates the 400m scene.
- Noah Lyles (USA): A sprinting powerhouse and world 200m champion.
- Emmanuel Wanyonyi (KEN): Kenya's pride, reigning supreme in the 800m.
Field Athletes:
- Tara Davis-Woodhall (USA): Soaring to victory in the long jump, she's a fan favorite.
- Nicola Olyslagers (AUS): Australia's high jump hero, reaching new heights.
- Mondo Duplantis (SWE): The Swedish pole vault maestro, defying gravity.
- Mattia Furlani (ITA): Italy's long jump champion, leaping into the spotlight.
Out-of-Stadium Athletes:
- Peres Jepchirchir (KEN): Kenya's marathon queen, leaving competitors in the dust.
- Maria Perez (ESP): Spain's race walk champion, a double threat in 20km and 35km.
- Sabastian Sawe (KEN): A Kenyan marathon legend, conquering London and Berlin.
- Alphonce Simbu (TAN): Tanzania's marathon champion, a rising star on the global stage.
And now, the power is in the hands of the fans! But here's where it gets controversial... With voting open for the World Athlete of the Year, will the public's choice align with the experts' picks? Will fan favorites prevail, or will there be surprises in store? The suspense is building as we await the winners' announcement at the grand ceremony in Monaco. Stay tuned, and let the debates begin!