Glitzy innovations but Duplantis still wins - new Ultimate Championship begins

BUDAPEST, September 12 - Norway's Jakob Ingebrigtsen has decided to step away from Sunday's 1,500 meters race at the World Athletics Ultimate Championship, pushing back a highly anticipated match against rival Josh Kerr. The 25-year-old, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, cited concerns over risking racing twice in three days as he continues his recovery from Achilles surgery in February.

Ingebrigtsen, who clinched the men's 5,000m title on Friday at the new lucrative event, expressed reluctance to compete back-to-back races due to his ongoing recuperation. Despite his desire for a sharper recovery, the Norwegian athlete acknowledged the necessity of being cautious, given his challenging past year marred by injuries and surgery.

Ingebrigtsen's withdrawal creates a setback in the rivalry between himself and British runner Josh Kerr, who last faced each other in 2024. The withdrawal also postpones a major showdown between Ingebrigtsen and Kerr, with their last encounter taking place last year. Kerr, who set a world mile record in July, responded positively to Ingebrigtsen's return to competition, emphasizing the importance of a balanced career rather than excessive race participation.

The 1,500m final on Sunday will still feature a star-studded lineup, including Olympic champion Cole Hocker, Olympic bronze medallist Yared Nuguse, reigning world champion Isaac Nader, and 2022 world champion Jake Wightman.