World Record Holders, Olympians, and Debutants: Team USATF’s Diverse Contingent
In a move signaling the U.S.’s intent to dominate the global athletics stage, the USATF has unveiled its complete roster of 139 athletes for the upcoming World Athletics Championships Budapest 23. Scheduled from August 19-27 at the National Athletics Centre in Budapest, Hungary, the event promises a showcase of top-tier talent.
Following their commanding performance at Oregon22, where they clinched the World Athletics Team Trophy with an impressive total of 33 medals, Team USATF is set to make waves in Budapest. The team, boasting 82 returning athletes from the Oregon22 lineup, features 23 individual medalists, of which 10 clinched gold. Furthermore, 63 of these athletes represented their country at the Tokyo Olympics, and 22 of them returned home with medals.
Remarkably, 10 athletes have secured their place as wild cards due to their exceptional performances at Oregon22 or the Diamond League Final in Zurich. Additionally, 45 athletes are prepping to make their debut under the Team USATF banner.
Highlighting the men’s shot put event, world record holder Ryan Crouser will be returning to defend his title. Notably, Crouser will be joined by Oregon22 silver medalist Joe Kovacs, bronze medalist Josh Awotunde, and Tokyo Olympian Payton Otterdahl.
As anticipation builds for the sprints, all eyes will be on Noah Lyles, who aspires to emulate the legendary Usain Bolt’s successful 1-2 double from 2015. With support from the promising 19-year-old bronze medalist Erriyon Knighton and reigning silver medalist Kenny Bednarek, a repeat of the Oregon22 podium sweep might be on the horizon.
In the women’s category, Katie Moon, a force in women’s pole vault and reigning Olympic champion, is set to compete alongside three-time silver medalist Sandi Morris and young prodigy Hana Moll.
Fred Kerley, known as the world’s fastest man, is poised to defend his 100m title, bolstered by a strong sprint roster, including USATF champion Cravont Charleston and Doha champion Christian Coleman.
For the women’s hammer event, Team USATF made history at Oregon22 by winning two medals. Champion Brooke Andersen and bronze medalist Janee’ Kassanavoid, the first Native American woman to clinch a World Championships medal, are now gearing up for another powerful performance.
In the men’s 400m, Michael Norman, who ended a nine-year gold drought in Eugene last year, remains a favorite, while Athing Mu, the reigning Olympic and world champion, is keen to continue her victory spree.
USATF CEO Max Siegel expressed confidence in the team, remarking, “Team USATF is primed for success in Budapest,” following their Oregon22 triumph.Take a look at the roster for some of the most popular male events below.
MEN’S ROSTER BY EVENT:
100m
- Cravont Charleston, Charlotte, NC
- Christian Coleman, Lexington, KY
- Fred Kerley, Miami, FL
- Noah Lyles, Clermont, FL
200m
- Kenny Bednarek, Minneola, FL
- Erriyon Knighton, Gainesville, FL
- Courtney Lindsey, Rock Island, IL
- Noah Lyles, Clermont, FL
400m
- Bryce Deadmon, Houston, TX
- Quincy Hall, Gainesville, FL
- Michael Norman, Los Angeles, CA
- Vernon Norwood, Baton Rouge, LA
The world awaits what promises to be an electric event, with Team USATF eager to carve out another success story in Budapest.
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