Ethiopia’s Tsige Duguma delivered a jaw-dropping performance at the Shanghai Diamond League, obliterating the meet record, world lead, and national record in a dominant 800m win. The Olympic silver medallist left no doubt about her form, storming to victory in 1:56.64.
Duguma showcased her championship pedigree, surging ahead off the final bend and powering down the home straight with unmatched determination. Her explosive finish left the field trailing, cementing her status as a gold-medal favorite.
Behind her, Australia’s Sarah Billings produced the race of her career, clocking a massive personal best (1:57.83) to snatch second place. The 26-year-old held off a late charge from Uganda’s Halimah Nakaayi, the 2019 world champion, who took third in a season-best 1:58.39.
Jamaica’s Natoya Goule-Toppin fought hard in the final meters to secure fourth (1:58.43), just edging out rising American star Addison Wiley (1:58.59), who set her fastest time of the year.
Ethiopia’s middle-distance strength was on full display, with Nigist Getachew (6th, 1:58.67 SB) and Habitam Alemu (8th, 1:59.57) both delivering strong runs. Meanwhile, the USA’s Sage Hurta-Klecker improved to seventh (1:59.11), and Britain’s Erin Wallace cracked the two-minute barrier for the first time this season (2:00.30 SB).
With reigning world champion Mary Moraa and Olympic silver medallist Keely Hodgkinson watching closely, the Duguma has proven she’s not just in the conversation, she’s leading it.
Her fearless front-running and devastating kick have set the stage for what could be the most thrilling 800m battle. If Shanghai was any indication, Duguma is ready to take the throne.