Day: September 20, 2025

Nafi Thiam Withdraws from Heptathlon at World Athletics Championships

Belgian athlete Nafi Thiam retired from her heptathlon at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, after five events on Saturday, reports 24brussels.

Thiam’s performance began positively on Friday, but deteriorated in subsequent events, culminating in a disappointing long jump on Saturday morning that left her in eighth place. “I withdrew her from the competition,” coach Michael Van der Plaetsen confirmed to reporters.

Prior to her withdrawal, Thiam had indicated that retirement was a likely outcome but had not made a definitive decision. The three-time Olympic champion’s struggles during the championships were compounded by her grievances with the Belgian athletics federation, particularly concerning disputes over financial arrangements related to publicity.

Thiam has historically performed exceptionally in the heptathlon, winning gold medals at the last three Olympic Games, underscoring her significant contributions to Belgian athletics.

_{© BELGA PHOTO JASPER JACOBS}