This Saturday, Eugene is set to welcome nearly 100 Olympic and Paralympic gold medallists, along with 14 world record holders, for the ninth leg of the 2025 Wanda Diamond League at the Prefontaine Classic. The event promises thrilling matchups across various track and field disciplines, making it a must-watch for athletics fans.
One of the highlights will be the long-standing rivalry between USA’s Kenny Bednarek and Olympic champion Letsile Tebogo in the men’s 200m. Last year, Bednarek won the Diamond League Final with an impressive 19.67, stealing the spotlight from Tebogo, who had a stellar performance prior to the event. This weekend, both athletes will face off again, along with other formidable competitors like Joseph Fahnbulleh, Jereem Richards, and Alexander Ogando. While Tebogo is well-positioned for the finals this year after his win in Doha, this marks Bednarek’s first appearance of the season, creating an exciting dynamic in the standings.
In the women’s 100m, the competition intensifies as Olympic and Diamond League champion Julien Alfred takes center stage. She will face off against notable American sprinters Sha’Carri Richardson and Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, both of whom will enjoy the familiar atmosphere of their home ground. Alfred has had a phenomenal season so far, winning in both Oslo and Stockholm, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash.
Additionally, Kenyan distance stars Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet are returning to the track, continuing their remarkable careers. Kipyegon, who holds four world records over the last two Diamond League seasons, is set to compete in the 1500m following a victory in the 1000m. Meanwhile, Chebet will aim to build on her recent successes, having set a 10,000m world record in Eugene last year.
The men’s 400m hurdles will also see an exciting encounter as Olympic champion Rai Benjamin goes head-to-head with world record holder Karsten Warholm and Diamond League champion Alison Dos Santos. Following two prior matches in Oslo and Stockholm, this race adds to the thrilling rivalry in one of athletics’ most competitive events.
Finally, the women’s long jump will feature a rematch of Olympic medalists, with Tara Davis-Woodhall, who recently won in Stockholm, looking to capitalize on her momentum. She faces formidable competitors Malaika Mihambo and Jasmine Moore, both aiming to make their mark at the Prefontaine Classic.
With such a high concentration of talent and drama anticipated at the meet, fans can expect a spectacular showcase of the world’s best athletes as they vie for glory.