Keely Hodgkinson, the Olympic champion who made history at Paris 2024, is now setting her sights on breaking the elusive 800m world record. Fresh off being named BBC Sports Personality of the Year, the 22-year-old track sensation says she feels “pretty close” to achieving the feat.
Hodgkinson’s remarkable 2024 season saw her claim Team GB’s first Olympic track gold since Sir Mo Farah’s Rio 2016 double, as well as retain her European title in Rome. She also shattered her own British women’s 800m record, clocking an incredible 1:54.61, a time surpassed by only five athletes in history.
Her coach, Trevor Painter, and mentor, Jenny Meadows—a former world 800m bronze medalist—believe Hodgkinson is on the cusp of redefining the sport. “Keely is an extraordinary talent with massive ambitions,” said Meadows. “She won’t stop until she’s won another Olympic gold in Los Angeles and beyond.”
The plan, according to Painter, is clear: dominate both the World Indoor and Outdoor Championships in 2025 and then target the world outdoor record in 2026. “We know she can hit 1:53 in 2025, and from there, we’ll push even further,” he added.
Hodgkinson’s stunning performance at the London Diamond League in July reinforced her readiness to take on Jarmila Kratochvílová’s longstanding world record. Despite a minor hamstring injury cutting short her season, the Briton has returned to training in South Africa with renewed focus.
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Reflecting on her journey since Tokyo 2021, Hodgkinson admitted to initial mental struggles following the highs of her breakout Games. However, her determination remains unwavering. “I’ve found real joy in competing this year,” she shared. “I loved every moment in London, Paris, and Prefontaine. The crowds, the performances—it’s been incredible.”
Her next big challenge comes on February 15 at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena, where she’ll aim to break the world indoor record set by Jolanda Čeplak on the very day Hodgkinson was born. With the World Indoor Championships in Nanjing scheduled for March and the Outdoor Championships in Tokyo later in the year, 2025 is shaping up to be another historic year for the young star.
As she chases new milestones, Hodgkinson is cementing her legacy as one of Britain’s greatest athletes. With her unparalleled drive, immense talent, and a clear roadmap to success, the 800m world record might just be the next chapter in her incredible story.