In a disappointing development for athletics fans worldwide, Qatar’s celebrated high jumper, Mutaz Essa Barshim, has withdrawn from the Tokyo 2025 World Championships. Barshim made the difficult decision after continued struggles with a foot injury that has impacted his ability to prepare for the event, which many expected to be his final appearance on the world stage.
Mutaz Essa Barshim has a remarkable career that places him among the sport’s all-time greats. The 34-year-old athlete from Doha has won three World Championship gold medals—in 2017 (London), 2019 (Doha), and 2022 (Eugene)—making history as the first high jumper to win three consecutive World titles. He also claimed the Olympic gold medal at Tokyo 2020, a moment that captured the hearts of fans worldwide when he famously shared the podium with Italy’s Gianmarco Tamberi after both cleared 2.37 meters.
Expressing his disappointment, Barshim said, “I had hoped to compete and bring joy to the fans in Qatar and around the world. But I believe the best is yet to come, God willing.” His withdrawal was a result of medical advice prioritizing his long-term health to avoid worsening the injury.
Meanwhile, the Qatar Athletics Federation conveyed regret over the loss of their star athlete but emphasized the importance of Barshim’s recovery. “Barshim was present with Team Qatar in Japan and made every effort to overcome the pain and compete in the championship, but the medical decision prioritized his safety so that he can return stronger in upcoming events,” the federation said.
In addition, Barshim holds the Asian and Qatari records with an outstanding personal best of 2.43 meters, ranking him as the second-highest high jumper ever, just behind the world record of 2.45 meters. Throughout his career, he has consistently delivered strong performances, medaling in multiple Olympics (2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024) and setting a high standard of excellence in the sport.
Mutaz Essa Barshim Withdrawals from Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships
Despite his determination to make one final competitive showing at the Tokyo Championships, medical experts advised him to withdraw for the sake of his long-term physical health. Moreover, Barshim expressed his gratitude to fans who have supported him throughout his career and pledged to remain committed to athletics in new roles, inspiring younger athletes.
His absence opens the field to emerging talents eager to make their mark, but Barshim’s legacy as a symbol of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dominance in high jump remains undiminished. The 2025 World Championships will undoubtedly feel the absence of this iconic figure.
As Tokyo hosts over 2000 best athletes from around the globe this September, its no doubt Barshim’s influence will continue to inspire and shape the future of track and field for years to come.
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