The World Athletics Championships in Tokyo heat up on day five. Noah Lyles seeks to rebound in the men’s 200m heats after a 100m bronze. Katie Moon aims for a third pole vault gold, and Britain’s Josh Kerr and Jake Wightman chase the men’s 1,500m title.
The men’s 1,500m final is wide open after Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen exited early due to an Achilles injury. Olympic champion Cole Hocker was disqualified for jostling. Defending champion Josh Kerr, 27, and teammate Jake Wightman, both past world champs, lead the race. They face strong rivals like Dutchman Niels Laros, Kenya’s Timothy and Reynold Cheruiyot, and Spain’s Adrien Ben. Kerr said, “I’ve done it before, and I’m here to do it again.”
Katie Moon, the two-time world champion and 2021 Olympic gold medalist, eyes a third pole vault title. She joins 13 others, including US teammates Sandi Morris and Hana Moll, after clearing 4.60m in the qualifiers. Morris, a two-time indoor champ, said she’s out for “revenge” after an injury in Tokyo 2021. Australia’s Nina Kennedy and Britain’s Molly Caudery are absent due to injuries.
Noah Lyles, the Olympic 100m champion, starts his quest for a fourth straight 200m world title. After a bronze in the 100m, Lyles called the 200m his “bread and butter.” Women’s 100m champion Julien Alfred withdrew from the 200m due to a hamstring strain. US star Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, fresh off a 100m win, aims for a sprint double in the 200m heats.
Read: Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships: Day Four Highlights
Day five showcases top athletes like Lyles and Moon, who inspire with their grit and skill. The 1,500m and pole vault finals promise fierce battles, while the 200m heats set the stage for more drama. These events highlight the global appeal of athletics and Tokyo’s vibrant championship atmosphere.
Noah Lyles, Katie Moon, and top runners make day five of the Tokyo 2025 World Championships a must-watch. With thrilling races and big stakes, the action is electric.