TRINIDAD and Tobago’s Keshorn Walcott wins the men’s javelin at the World Athletics Championships with a season’s best throw of 88.16 metres on Thursday.
Competing in steady rain, the two-time Olympic medallist seized control early and never let go. Walcott opened with 81.22m, then surged into the lead on his second attempt at 87.83m.
With Grenada’s Anderson Peters applying pressure at 87.38m, the Toco-born thrower responded decisively in round four, extending his advantage to 88.16m. He added a strong 85.84m in the fifth round and ultimately did not need his sixth attempt, as his fourth-round mark secured the gold.
Peters took silver, while the United States’ Curtis Thompson claimed bronze with 86.67m.
The victory delivers Walcott his first World Championships medal and caps a patient pursuit of global honours since his stunning Olympic triumph in 2012. He also won Olympic bronze in 2016.
Paris 2024 Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem of Pakistan finished 10th with 82.75m, and Olympic silver medallist Neeraj Chopra of India placed eighth at 84.03m.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said, “On behalf of the Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago, I extend sincere congratulations to Jereem Richards on his outstanding performance at the World Athletics Championships, winning silver and setting a new national record. Your hard work, perseverance, and dedication continue to inspire the nation, and we remain forever proud of your achievements.”
Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Phillip Watts also congratulated Walcott, hailing his successes as an inspiration for all local athletes.
Watts said, “On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, I am absolutely thrilled to congratulate Keshorn Walcott on this phenomenal achievement. His season-best throw of 88.16 metres in the fourth round demonstrates the exceptional talent and dedication that continues to place Trinidad and Tobago on the world stage in athletics.”
“Keshorn’s success is a testament to his unwavering dedication, the support of his coaching team, and the strength of our national athletics programme. This gold medal victory will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of young athletes across Trinidad and Tobago to pursue excellence in sport,” Watts added.
