Athing Mu-Nikolayev is embracing a new chapter in her season after missing out on a spot in the women’s 800m team for the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo. Despite the disappointment, the former world champion has found comfort in the opportunity to reset and finish her year on her own terms.
The 2022 world 800m gold medalist began her campaign with a strong performance in the heats, winning in 2:00.06. However, she fell short in the semifinals, finishing fourth in 1:59.79 and failing to qualify for the final. While the result dashed her hopes of competing in Tokyo, she remains optimistic and focused on growth.
Mu-Nikolayev explained that stepping away from the pressure of global competition has brought her a sense of relief. With the World Championships now off her calendar, she plans to compete in a few European races to round off the season, giving herself the flexibility to recover and regroup.
“There’s a lot more freedom now, not just holding on to the World Championships,” she said. “We’ll probably take a little break and see what’s next.”
Reflecting on her semifinal performance, Mu-Nikolayev acknowledged some tactical missteps. Starting from lane two, she aimed to conserve energy and avoid going out too hard but later realized a slightly quicker start and a more strategic position early in the race could have made a difference. She believes staying at the back too long may have cost her the chance to finish stronger.
Still, she left the track with her fastest time of the season and a feeling that she was more competitive than in previous outings. It’s been a tough road, especially after a heartbreaking fall during the US Olympic Trials in 2024, where she missed out on defending her Olympic title. But Mu-Nikolayev remains resilient.
She highlighted the mental challenges she has overcome this season, emphasizing the growth and peace she has found through it all. “Just getting myself to this meet was a big challenge,” she shared. “I felt pretty free and at peace throughout the rounds.”
Now, with no pressure and a renewed mindset, Mu-Nikolayev is ready to close her season on her own terms, guided by resilience and faith.
