**Back-to-Back Wins for Keely Hodgkinson Since Injury Return**
In an exhilarating display of resilience and talent, British athlete Keely Hodgkinson celebrated two impressive victories within a span of just five days following her comeback from injury. The 23-year-old Olympic champion made headlines at the Diamond League event in Lausanne, clocking an impressive time of one minute 55.69 seconds. This remarkable performance not only marked her second win since returning to competition but also established a meeting record, accomplished in less-than-ideal weather conditions in Switzerland.
Hodgkinson’s victory in Lausanne came after a lengthy hiatus from competitive racing, highlighting the challenges she faced during a 376-day break since winning gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This season had been marred by injuries, specifically two hamstring tears that delayed her return. However, Hodgkinson’s effort in Silesia just days prior, where she recorded a world-leading time, demonstrated she was back in prime form and ready to reclaim her position among the best in her field.
Competing alongside Hodgkinson was her training partner, Georgia Hunter Bell, who secured third place in Lausanne with a time of 1:57.55, following Switzerland’s Audrey Werro, who finished in 1:57.34. Hunter Bell’s performance was commendable, especially as she was also looking forward to deciding on her event focus for future competitions after garnering international acclaim over 1500 meters.
Despite the adversity faced earlier this year with her injuries, Hodgkinson’s triumphant return to the track has firmly established her as a frontrunner for gold at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. Her comeback was underscored by a groundbreaking time in Poland, where she not only showcased the fastest time of 2025 but also registered the ninth-fastest time in history at 1:54.74. This achievement came alarmingly close to her lifetime best, which she previously set at the London Diamond League.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better start,” Hodgkinson expressed to BBC World Service Sport, admitting to her surprise at the rapid success following her injury-laden year. Her coach, Trevor Painter, mentioned that Hodgkinson’s timing was ahead of schedule, which excited both athlete and trainer alike.
In response to her recent performances, Hodgkinson hinted at her aspirations for even faster times leading into the Olympics, underscoring her desire to refine her race-day skills. As she sped away from competitors in the final lap of the race in Lausanne, it was evident that her concentration and preparation were manifesting into exceptional results.
Hodgkinson’s training partner, Hunter Bell, is also in the midst of a significant career phase as she navigates her options for the Olympics following a recent crescendo of victories, including notable successes in Stockholm and London within the 800m domain. After breaking the British 1500m record last summer, she stands at a career crossroads, weighing her opportunities for possible doubling in Tokyo and seeking guidance from legendary athletes like Dame Kelly Holmes.
The forthcoming World Championships, set for late August, will involve the announcement of the British team on August 27, a date on which Hodgkinson will be keenly watched as she pursues yet another victory on the world stage.
Elsewhere during the Diamond League events, other athletes showcased impressive performances as well, with Britain’s Zharnel Hughes finishing fifth in a competitive men’s 100m race, clocking 10.09 seconds as Jamaican athlete Oblique Seville took victory. Additionally, emerging talents like Max Burgin and Morgan Lake displayed commendable performances in their respective events.
Overall, Hodgkinson’s significant victories serve as an inspiring reminder of resilience, the power of dedication, and the thrill of competitive sport, especially as athletes look toward the upcoming international fixtures and the Olympics. Her journey reflects both personal and athletic evolution, embodying the spirit of determination that characterizes elite sports.
