Audrey Werro’s 800m performance in Stockholm, clocking 1:53.98, marks the third-fastest time in history, trailing only Jarmila Kratochvilova (1:53.28) and Nadezhda Olizarenko (1:53.43). In the same meet, 17-year-old Cooper Lutkenhaus secured the year’s fastest men’s 800m at 1:42.70, while Keely Hodgkinson eyes the London Diamond League for a world record attempt.
How Audrey Werro Shifted the 800m Landscape
In Stockholm, 22-year-old Swiss runner Audrey Werro delivered the quickest 800m since the Cold War era. By crossing the line in 1:53.98, she moved into third on the all-time list. This performance eclipsed the previous dominance of Keely Hodgkinson, who finished behind her. Werro, who admitted she was “still in shock,” now views the world record as a realistic target for the current season.
The world record for the women’s 800m, set by Jarmila Kratochvilova in 1983 at 1:53.28, remains the oldest record in track and field.
Why Keely Hodgkinson Remains Focused on Records
Despite the defeat, Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson remains optimistic about her trajectory. Her British record time of 1:54.33 ranks sixth all-time. According to Hodgkinson, the loss serves as a “pivotal moment” rather than a setback. She plans to shift her training focus from 400m speed and 1500m stamina back to specific 800m blocks, aiming specifically for the London Diamond League in July to challenge the world record.
The Rise of Cooper Lutkenhaus
The men’s 800m featured a breakthrough from 17-year-old American Cooper Lutkenhaus. After becoming the youngest track and field world champion indoors in March, he beat a field including 2023 world champion Marco Arop with a time of 1:42.70. Arop noted that Lutkenhaus is a “special talent” after witnessing the teenager navigate the race with a confident display.
Performance Milestones in Stockholm
Beyond the 800m, other athletes reached long-held goals. Amy Hunt, the world 200m silver medallist, finally broke the 11-second barrier in the 100m, finishing in 10.97 seconds. Conversely, pole vaulter Mondo Duplantis, who was aiming for his 16th world record, struggled with windy conditions and a stye, clearing only 5.80m and finishing behind Australia’s Kurtis Marschall.
Track athletes often adjust training blocks—moving between speed-focused 400m work and endurance-based 1500m work—to peak for specific Diamond League events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who holds the women’s 800m world record?
The record is held by the Czech Republic’s Jarmila Kratochvilova, who ran 1:53.28 in 1983.
What was the fastest 800m time in the world this year?
Following the Stockholm meet, Cooper Lutkenhaus holds the world-leading time for the men’s 800m at 1:42.70.
How did Keely Hodgkinson perform in Stockholm?
Hodgkinson finished behind Audrey Werro but maintained her focus on the upcoming London Diamond League, where she intends to pursue the world record.
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