Tokyo, Japan – The World Athletics Championships Tokyo 2025 delivered thrilling 4x400m relay action, with the United States and Botswana etching their names in history. Despite challenging, rain-soaked conditions, both teams showcased incredible speed and determination.
US Women Dominate, Setting Meet Record
Led by the newly crowned 400m champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the U.S. women's team secured a dominant victory in the 4x400m relay. The team, comprised of Isabella Whittaker, Lynna Irby-Jackson, Aaliyah Butler, and McLaughlin-Levrone, finished with a meet record of 3:16.61. Jamaica claimed second place with a season-best of 3:19.25, while the Netherlands secured bronze in 3:20.18, also a season best.
The American squad built a significant lead early in the race, making McLaughlin-Levrone's anchor leg a victory lap. The team's synergy and individual brilliance were evident throughout the competition.
Botswana Makes History, SA Claims Bronze in Men's Race
In a stunning upset, Botswana clinched gold in the men's 4x400m relay, becoming the first African nation to win the event. The race was a nail-biter, with Botswana edging out the United States and South Africa in a photo finish. Collen Kebinatshipi, the individual 400m champion, delivered a remarkable final leg, securing the victory in 2:57.76.
The United States, after a morning run-off to qualify, took silver, while South Africa claimed bronze, both finishing with a time of 2:57.83. The race highlighted the intense competition and unpredictable nature of relay events.
The atrocious weather conditions added another layer of complexity to the races, testing the athletes' resilience and skill. Both the US and Botswana teams demonstrated exceptional adaptability and teamwork to overcome the challenges and achieve their respective victories.