The Wanda Diamond League heads to Europe on Friday, June 6, with the historic city of Rome hosting the next leg of the 2025 series.
Following the thrills in Rabat, all eyes now shift to the Stadio Olimpico, where a mouth-watering women’s 200-meter showdown awaits.
Track and field fans are in for a treat as a glittering lineup of sprint stars prepares to clash. It promises to be one of the most hotly contested events of the night. The official start list is out—and it’s stacked with top-tier talent from across the globe.
Annavia Battle Leads the Charge
One of the most in-form athletes heading to Rome is Anavia Battle (USA), who has been on a tear this Diamond League season. She claimed back-to-back wins at the Xiamen and Shanghai meets, clocking 22.41 and 22.38 seconds respectively. Her victory in Xiamen was particularly impressive, edging out sprint queen Shericka Jackson, marking her as one to watch in Rome.
Can McKenzie Long Find Her Breakthrough?
American sprinter McKenzie Long is another major name on the roster. Although she hasn’t secured a Diamond League win yet this year, she brings with her a season-best of 22.63 seconds and a formidable personal best of 21.83 seconds. With her raw speed and untapped potential, Rome could provide the perfect stage for her breakout.
Veterans Return to the Spotlight
The experience in this race is unmatched. Brittany BROWN, the 2019 World silver medalist, returns to Diamond League action after a quiet season so far. With a lifetime best of 21.90 seconds, she has the tools to upset the formbook if she finds her rhythm.
The olympic 200m bronze medalist will hope to step up again in Rome after last year she secured a first place in the 200 meters dash at the same event.
Fellow American Jenna Prandini has been consistent across 2025, finishing third in both Xiamen (22.97) and Shanghai (22.88). Her smooth running style and experience in big races could pay dividends under the Roman lights.
Also in the mix is Tamara Clark, who boasts a blistering personal best of 21.72 seconds. While she hasn’t hit top form this season, her previous exploits make her a dangerous threat if she finds her groove.
Ta Lou-Smith Adds Star Power
Côte d’Ivoire’s Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith, one of the most decorated African sprinters of the past decade, is set to bring her fiery competitiveness to the Italian capital. She enters Rome with a season-best of 22.08 seconds, and with her wealth of experience, she’s a name no one will be overlooking.
Europe and Africa Represented
Home favourite Dalia Kaddari will look to channel the energy of the local crowd. The Italian sprint star has clocked a season-best of 22.64 seconds and will be keen to make an impression on her home track.
Spain’s Paula Sevilla has mostly focused on the 400m this season, equaling the Spanish national record with a time of 50.99 seconds. Though stepping down in distance, her strength and speed endurance make her a fascinating wildcard in the 200m field.
Another Ivorian talent, Maboundou Koné, will also be on the start line. She competed in Shanghai, registering a time of 23.81 seconds. She’ll be aiming for a major improvement in Rome to get back in the mix.
From proven veterans to hungry newcomers, the Rome Diamond League women’s 200m is brimming with intrigue. Will Anavia Battle extend her winning streak? Can McKenzie Long or Tamara Clark rise to the occasion? Or will a dark horse steal the headlines?
