The race for the prestigious World Athletics Awards 2025 has officially begun, and the excitement is palpable across the global athletics community. The international governing body has unveiled the list of nominees for both male and female categories, highlighting the season’s most exceptional performers on the track and in the field.
Each year, the awards honour athletes who have redefined excellence, inspired millions, and delivered breathtaking performances on the global stage. From record-breaking sprints to historic jumps and throws, this year’s contenders reflect the diversity and strength of modern athletics.
World Athletics Male Track Athlete of the Year Nominees
- Rai Benjamin (USA): The American 400m hurdler remains a model of consistency and power, dominating both hurdles and relay events.
- Emmanuel Wanyonyi (Kenya): The young middle-distance star continues to impress after his explosive rise in the 800m circuit.
- Noah Lyles (USA): A triple world champion and the face of sprinting today, Lyles remains the man to beat after yet another season of electrifying performances.
- Cordell Tinch (USA): The rising hurdler turned heads this season with record-level times and unrelenting energy on the track.
- Jimmy Gressier (France): Europe’s standout distance runner has brought flair and endurance to the men’s middle and long-distance scene.
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World Athletics Female Track Athlete of the Year Nominees
- Beatrice Chebet (Kenya): The long-distance powerhouse who has dominated cross-country and track events with relentless pace.
- Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (USA): The 400m hurdles queen, renowned for her world record-breaking form and smooth stride.
- Faith Kipyegon (Kenya): A legend of the sport, Kipyegon continues to make history with unmatched performances in the 1500m and mile.
- Melissa Jefferson-Wooden (USA): One of the newest sprint sensations, she’s been a consistent force in women’s 100m races.
- Femke Bol (Netherlands): The European star whose dominance in the 400m hurdles and flat races continues to captivate the world.
World Athletics Male Field Athlete of the Year Nominees
- Mondo Duplantis (Sweden): The pole vault phenomenon and multiple world record holder who keeps redefining his event.
- Mattia Furlani (Italy): The teenage long jump sensation whose fearless approach earned him global attention.
- Hamish Kerr (New Zealand): A consistent high jump performer who has cemented his place among the elite.
- Ethan Katzberg (Canada): The hammer throw champion who continues to impress with raw strength and precision.
- Pedro Pablo Pichardo (Portugal): A dominant figure in the triple jump, bringing both flair and experience to the category.
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World Athletics Female Field Athlete of the Year Nominees
- Valarie Allman (USA): The reigning discus queen whose grace and power remain unmatched.
- Tara Davis-Woodhall (USA): A long jump star whose energy and consistency make her a fan favourite.
- Camryn Rogers (Canada): One of the brightest talents in hammer throw, known for her technical mastery.
- Nicola Olyslagers (Australia): A high jump specialist who continues to set new standards for excellence.
- Anna Hall (USA): A versatile heptathlete with remarkable endurance and drive across multiple disciplines.
Nigerian Representation and Legacy
Although no Nigerian athlete is among the nominees this year, the country’s athletic community remains proud of Tobi Amusan, who made history in 2022 as the first-ever Nigerian nominated for the World Athletics Awards. Her record-breaking performance in the 100m hurdles still serves as an inspiration to upcoming athletes across Africa.
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As voting and deliberations continue, fans around the world are eagerly predicting who will clinch the ultimate honours. Whether it’s Noah Lyles, Faith Kipyegon, or Mondo Duplantis, the 2025 awards promise to celebrate not just victory, but the resilience and artistry that define global athletics.
