World's Elite Set to Clash in Star-Studded 100m Lineup at the 50th Nike Prefontaine Classic
The track and field world is bracing for a sprint showdown that feels like a preview of the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships. The women’s 100m event at the 50th edition of the Nike Prefontaine Classic, scheduled for Saturday, July 5, 2025, promises to be one of the most electrifying races of the year, as some of the globe’s fastest women line up at the iconic Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.
The entry list reads like a who's who of sprinting royalty, featuring top-tier talent from across the world. Leading the pack is Sha’Carri Richardson (USA), the reigning World Champion and crowd favorite, looking to reaffirm her dominance after an impressive start to the season. She will face stiff competition from Julien Alfred (Saint Lucia), the 2023 NCAA Champion and rising international star.
The American contingent is bolstered by Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, the 2022 US champion, and Twanisha “TeeTee” Terry, known for her explosive finish and strong relay performances. Great Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith, a former world champion herself, adds further prestige and global flair to the lineup.
The Jamaican duo of Tia Clayton and Tina Clayton, both products of the island's storied sprinting legacy, will also feature prominently. Meanwhile, Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith of Côte d’Ivoire, one of the most consistent performers in recent years, will be aiming to upset the younger field with her experience and sharp form.
Nigeria’s own Favour Ofili, known for her strength in both the 100m and 200m events, enters the race with eyes set on making a statement ahead of Tokyo. Ofili, who has steadily climbed the ranks in global sprinting, is carrying the hopes of her nation and supporters from across Africa.
The Nike Prefontaine Classic is part of the Wanda Diamond League and has long been a key stop for elite athletes ahead of global competitions. This year’s women’s 100m feels less like an exhibition and more like a high-stakes final, offering fans a glimpse into the fierce battles likely to unfold in Tokyo later this year.
With such a powerful lineup, the event is expected to deliver fireworks on the track. All eyes will be on Hayward Field come Saturday, as history may just be made in under 11 seconds.
— Wanda Diamond League / Nike Prefontaine Classic official website / Athletics Weekly
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