New Delhi: India is set to field a robust team at the World Athletics Championships 2025 in Tokyo, with multiple athletes confirming their spots through entry standards, wildcards, and world rankings.
Champions, first-timers and veteran contenders
Among those already qualified are Olympic and defending world javelin champion Neeraj Chopra, who enters via a wildcard as the reigning title holder. His qualification is bolstered by strong performances across the season.
Long jumper Murali Sreeshankar has secured his place through global rankings, marking a comeback after recovering from an extended injury break.
Tokyo-bound also are javelin throwers Sachin Yadav and Yashvir Singh, who made the qualification cut via ranking quotas. Rising sprinter Animesh Kujur has earned a historic spot in the 200 metres—he will be the first Indian sprinter to compete in this event at the World Championships.
Veterans Annu Rani solidified her berth in the women’s javelin throw by consistent performances exceeding 60 metres during the qualification window.
Broader field reflects India’s diverse strength
A total of 13 Indian athletes—nine men and four women—have made the cut through the ranking route. This includes top performers across field events, middle-distance runs, steeplechase, and racewalking. Notables include Sarvesh Kushare (high jump), Abdulla Aboobacker (triple jump), and racewalkers Ram Baboo, Servin Sebastian, Akshdeep Singh, and Priyanka Goswami.
Also qualified via entry marks are Gulveer Singh (5000 m), Parul Chaudhary (3000 m steeplechase), Avinash Sable (though now sidelined due to injury), and Praveen Chitravel (triple jump).
Final push through inter-state competitions
The National Inter-State Athletics Championships, held in Chennai, served as the final qualifying opportunity. While a few athletes achieved direct entry through performance standards during this meet, others solidified their Tokyo hopes via the global ranking list.
Head coach Radhakrishnan Nair remains upbeat despite injury setbacks to stars like steeplechaser Avinash Sable and hurdler Jyothi Yarraji. He expressed confidence that “many Indians will still qualify for the Worlds”, highlighting the growing depth in the team.
Conclusion
With nearly 19 athletes potentially set to compete in Tokyo across disciplines ranging from javelin and long jump to sprints and racewalking, India is prepared to make a significant impact. Their presence reflects a blend of experienced champions, emerging talent, and resilience in the face of adversity. Final entries will be determined by the Athletics Federation of India before the championships begin in September.