The women’s 1500m at the Tokyo Worlds seems to have hit a rough patch. With top contenders like Sifan Hassan already out and several others pulling out at the last minute, the field has opened up dramatically. Adding to the twist, Diribe Welteji now finds herself under scrutiny by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), with her case appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Caught in this legal loop, she could face suspension, further shaking up the competition. As a result, Team USA’s chances of securing its first medal in the event since 2017 have suddenly grown stronger.
The last time Team USA secured a medal in the 1500m was at the 2017 London World Championships, when Jenny Simpson clocked 4:02.76 to take silver behind Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon, who won in 4:02.59. Since then,