The World Athletics Awards are fast approaching, and this year’s shortlist for Female Track Athlete of the Year is making waves. For the first time, all six nominees are Black women who have excelled on the world stage. Their remarkable performances at the 2024 Paris Olympics have earned them the highest recognition in track and field, with historic milestones, world records, and unforgettable wins.
Faith Kipyegon Makes History at the Paris Olympics
Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon is no stranger to the global athletics spotlight. Kipyegon continued to build on her legendary career in 2024, becoming the first athlete in history to win the 1500m gold medal at three consecutive Olympic Games. This middle-distance champion also took home silver in the 5000m, proving her versatility and endurance in both races.
Kipyegon’s consistency and ability to perform at the highest level have made her a standout. Her journey to greatness has inspired athletes across Africa and beyond. For her, being nominated for Female Track Athlete of the Year is another step in her incredible legacy.
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Shatters Records
American sprinter Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone also had a phenomenal 2024, setting a new world record in the 400m hurdles. McLaughlin-Levrone became the first woman to defend her Olympic title in this event, finishing the race with an astounding time of 50.37 seconds.
Her extraordinary performance didn’t stop there. Alongside her teammates, McLaughlin-Levrone won gold in the 4x400m relay, contributing to a remarkable team effort. Her nomination for Female Track Athlete of the Year is a testament to her relentless drive and ability to perform under pressure.
Julien Alfred Puts Saint Lucia on the Map
Julien Alfred made history for her home country of Saint Lucia by winning the 100m final at the Paris Olympics. She clocked in at 10.72 seconds, the largest margin in a women’s Olympic 100m final since 2008. This achievement made Alfred the first Saint Lucian athlete to win an Olympic gold medal.
Alfred’s rise in track and field has been meteoric. In addition to her Olympic success, she holds the national records for both the 100m and 200m, solidifying her as one of the top sprinters in the world. Her nomination highlights the incredible talent coming out of smaller nations and shows that passion and dedication can lead to global recognition.
Gabby Thomas and Marileidy Paulino Shine at the Olympics
U.S. sprinter Gabby Thomas also made a strong case for the award. She took home three Olympic gold medals in the 200m, 4x100m, and 4x400m events, further establishing her as a force in the sprinting world. Thomas’s versatility and speed on the track have put her in a strong position to claim the title of Female Track Athlete of the Year.
Marileidy Paulino of the Dominican Republic rounds out the list of nominees. Paulino captured gold in the 400m at the Paris Olympics, adding to her impressive collection of medals. With 21 official competition medals and the reigning Diamond League 400m champion title, Paulino has had a year to remember.
Her nomination celebrates her accomplishments and showcases the global reach of Black women in track and field, bringing attention to the often-overlooked talent in countries like the Dominican Republic.
