Dominican Republic sprint star Marileidy Paulino says every meet this season is part of her buildup to the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo.
In an interview ahead of the Paris Diamond League last week, where she stormed to a season-best and meeting record of 48.81 seconds to win the women’s 400m , the Olympic champion underlined her focus.
“It’s been a packed season, and we are obviously preparing for the World Championships in September. That is our focus,” Paulino said.
“Every single competition, every single event that I’m taking part in is with the World Championships in mind.”
The reigning world champion has been in top form this year. She has showed consistency across events. In Paris, she looked untouchable over the one-lap distance, continuing her dominance in the 400m.
Star of the Show
Over the past two years, Paulino has established herself as a major force in the discipline, and she’s aware of her growing stature.
“Yes, I agree that I can continue to be the star of the show,” she said. “I’m one of those people that really works hard to become stronger.”
Marileidy Paulino, also believes that track and field is more than just about medals. It is about entertainment and inspiration.
“It’s good… in the athletics world, people enjoy the show that athletics is,” she added. “And together with Salwa Eid Naser and other athletes, I think we can perform well and give that show.”
Paulino’s season has already seen her clinch back to back wins in the Grand Slam Track competition. She had a commanding win in the 200m at the Philadelphia meet. She clocked 22.46 seconds, beating American Isabella Whittaker (22.82) and Ivory Coast’s Jessika Gbai (22.85).
Paulino, currently leads the 2025 world list in the 400m with her 48.17 clocking , another marker of her incredible consistency as the road to Tokyo continues.
