Cheptoyek remains Uganda’s sole medal hope at World Athletics Championships

World Athletics Championships

Results

Women’s 800m

1.Lilian Odira KEN 1:56.85

2.Audrey Werro SUI 1:56.99       

3.Jessica Hull AUS 1:57.15

6.Halima Nakaayi UGA 1:57.79  

Uganda’s medal hopes at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo now rest solely on Joy Cheptoyek, as the competition heads into its final day on Sunday.

Initially, Halima Nakaayi had been tipped as Uganda’s best chance for a podium finish after Olympic champion Peruth Chemutai fell earlier in the competition.

However, Nakaayi’s campaign in the women’s 800m came to an end after she was drawn in the fastest heat and finished fifth, missing out on a place in the final.

“The race was tough, though I gave it my all. About five meters from the finish line, I completely lost my legs, and that cost me the chance to advance. But I know I did my best,” Nakaayi said after the race.

Despite the disappointment, the 2019 world champion emphasized her consistency and resilience. “Every year I have been showing up, no matter the challenge. Even after losing my brother last month, my number one supporter—I kept working hard. It has been psychologically painful and torturing, but I still showed up,” she added, still visibly affected by her personal loss.

On Friday, Nakaayi was one of three Ugandan athletes in action, but none managed to progress. Keneth Kiprop finished 13th in his heat, which was won by Belgium’s Isaac Kimeli, while Herbert Kibet placed 18th in his race.

With their exits, Uganda’s hopes now rest on Cheptoyek, who carries the nation’s final chance of ending the championships with a medal.