Keely Hodgkinson has overcome one of the toughest periods of her career to arrive at the World Athletics Championships as the overwhelming favourite for the women’s 800m. The Olympic champion endured months of physical setbacks and emotional turmoil, yet now feels stronger, faster, and more resilient than ever.
Her season nearly collapsed when recurring hamstring injuries flared up earlier this year, leaving her unsure if she would even make it to Tokyo. The frustration boiled over at times, but she found support in unconventional ways from a Himalayan salt lamp gifted by her coach to a full-time physiotherapist funded through her sponsors. The physio uncovered the root of her problems: a long-standing back issue. With treatment, Hodgkinson’s performances quickly surged.
Her return was emphatic. Just over a year after her Olympic triumph in Paris, she stormed back onto the track with a blistering 1:54.74 run at the Diamond League in Silesia, the ninth-fastest time in history. Four days later she clocked 1:55 in Lausanne, confirming her return to peak form. Instead of being weighed down by expectation, she has embraced the challenge, believing her setbacks have forged a stronger competitor.
The 23-year-old admits the injuries were emotionally draining, compounded by criticism on social media when she was unable to compete. But she has learned to process frustration with the help of her psychologist and now shrugs off negativity with resilience. “It’s been quite a journey,” she reflects, describing the past year as character-building and transformative.
She has also grown physically stronger, adding muscle in the gym without losing speed. Far from hindering her, the added power has enhanced her racing edge. With her body in balance and confidence restored, Hodgkinson insists she feels like a “better version” of herself heading into the championships.
The pressure that once weighed heavily after her Olympic success has eased. Experience has given her perspective, and instead of being burdened by expectations, she is motivated by the chance to add a world title to her growing legacy. “I have to walk away with the gold and hopefully I will,” she says. Calm and assured, Hodgkinson is ready to reaffirm her status as the best 800m runner in the world.
