TOKYO2025: Yego dreaming of podium finish 10 years after title

Former World Champion and five-time Africa javelin gold medalist, Julius Yego is looking to make a return to the podium in a global competition for the first time since 2016, when he won silver at the Rio Olympic Games.

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He achieved that feat a year after winning his first world title in Beijing, where the now 36-year-old threw an African Record and Personal Best (PB) of 92.72m.

"I want to be on the podium. I did it in 2015, it has been 10 years and I really want this and I am dreaming of being on that podium. I will be very excitedif I do," Yego told journalists after qualifying for the 12-man final. 

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As he lines up for the final at this year's World Championship on the sixth day, Yego, who executed a smooth run-up and powerful release, hitting the automatic qualifying mark on his very first attempt, in the qualification round on Day 5, with an impressive season's best throw of 85.96m, faces stiff competition. 

"I saved some energy for tomorrow because javelin is tough and to win one has to throw far. The plan was to reach the final, then plan on my execution. I am feeling physically and mentally strong, which is what is expected of throwers here and I feel ready for the final," Yego says. 

A thrilling showdown is expected between two reigning global champions, three past winners of global titles, and the world leader.

Defending champion Neeraj Chopra carries the favourite tag in a championship that has seen giants humbled. The others include Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem, world leader and Diamond League champion Julian Weber, two-time world champion Anderson Peters, who led the qualifying round with 89.53m, 2015 champion Yego, and 2012 Olympic champion Keshorn Walcott.

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"This year I have had good training and preparations and I feel good. I am hoping for the best tomorrow," Yego offered, further admitting that the team's performance so far, with four gold medals from four women, a silver and bronze, is adding to his motivation.