Expect a spectacle of dramatic storylines, thrilling contests, and fierce rivalries, possibly featuring world-record performances at the Paris 2024 athletics events.
From August 1-11, the world’s elite athletes will converge at Stade de France in Paris, aiming to make historic marks through their performances in running, jumping, and throwing events. As the opening ceremony approaches, here are ten highlights to anticipate.
No Stopping Lyles?
American sprinter and Olympic bronze medalist, Noah Lyles, seeks to dominate the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m races, having secured gold in these categories at the previous World Championships. Lyles has also set his sights on the 4x400m relay. Key competitors include Great Britain’s Zharnel Hughes and newcomer Louie Hinchliffe, with other formidable rivals from Jamaica and Italy ready to challenge.
Fraser-Pryce’s Final Olympic Challenge
Jamaican sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is set to compete in her final Olympics. With an impressive record, she faces tough competition from the current world champions. Notable matchups include British contenders Dina Asher-Smith and Daryll Neita, who are eyeing their first individual Olympic medals.
Middle-Distance Rivalry: Kerr vs. Ingebrigtsen
One of the most anticipated duels is between Britain’s Josh Kerr and Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen in the men’s 1500m. Both athletes have a history of intense competition, adding excitement to this event.
Hodgkinson’s Quest for 800m Gold
British runner Keely Hodgkinson, after several near-misses, aims to claim her first global 800m title, especially in the absence of key competitors. She recently demonstrated her readiness by posting a world-leading time in London.
Will Duplantis Break Another Record?
Swedish pole vaulter Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis is almost guaranteed gold but the excitement lies in whether he will break his own world record again.
Heptathlon: Johnson-Thompson vs. Thiam & Hall
Katarina Johnson-Thompson, Nafi Thiam, and Anna Hall are set to engage in a gripping heptathlon contest, each with compelling personal comebacks and achievements.
Record-Breaking Hurdles Face-off
In the 400m hurdles, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Femke Bol are expected to push each other towards potential world-record times, making this one of the must-watch events.
Kipyegon’s Continued Dominance
Faith Kipyegon aims to continue her winning streak in the middle distances, facing strong challengers from around the globe in multiple events.
Rudisha’s 800m Record Challenged
David Rudisha’s long-standing 800m world record could be under threat as several athletes have shown promising form leading up to the Games.
Hudson-Smith’s Comeback Trail
British 400m runner Matthew Hudson-Smith, after overcoming injuries and mental health challenges, aims for gold with the year’s fastest time under his belt.
These athletes and their storylines are set to make the athletics events at Paris 2024 unforgettable.
