The 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China promised a thrilling showcase of elite competition. Fans tuned in, eager to witness world-class performances and high-stakes battles on the track. But as the women’s 400m event unfolded, the excitement quickly gave way to confusion.
Something felt off. In an event that usually boasts stacked heats and nail-biting semifinals, the sight of an almost empty lineup was jarring. With only a handful of athletes on the track, the atmosphere felt more like a time trial than a world championship race. As stunned viewers watched, social media erupted with disbelief. Was this really the pinnacle of global indoor competition?
Track and field analyst Owen captured the frustration perfectly in a viral tweet. “This women’s 400m is quite embarrassing. Straight semifinals and only three athletes in the first lineup. Not at all the athletes’ fault—but this is one of the problems with having an indoor champs in China during an already busy and long season.” His words struck a chord, highlighting a growing concern among fans and athletes alike. Scheduling an indoor championship in China, far from the sport’s major training hubs, during an already packed calendar seemed to be taking a toll.
This women’s 400m is quite embarrassing.
Straight semifinals and only three athletes in the first lineup.
Not at all the athletes fault – but this is one of the problems with having an indoor champs in China during an already busy and long season. #WorldIndoorChamps
— Owen (@_OwenM_) March 21, 2025
Frustrated fans wasted no time voicing their disappointment. “What is wrong with athletes not showing up for even events such as World Championships? It’s just so frustrating.” The sight of a near-empty lineup raised concerns about the event’s credibility. If top athletes aren’t showing up, is the competition truly world-class?
Others pointed out the long-term impact, with one fan warning, “There’s no way the sport is going to grow if athletes continue to duck indoor champs.” Without star power and full fields, the prestige of indoor track is fading fast. Beyond athlete participation, logistical challenges added another layer to the debate. “The most annoying part is after pulling out (to prepare for outdoors), they end up not making National teams. And if they manage to, they don’t get to finals (WC/Oly) ,” one fan noted, questioning the wisdom of skipping major races. But perhaps the biggest issue of all was the location itself.
“It’s pretty expensive to get to China, let alone getting a visa. Countries rather invest money into the outdoor championships. Very expensive.” With long travel, high costs, and visa complications, many federations simply chose to sit this one out. Leaving the women’s 400m in an unfortunate state.
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