By Stig Editor 
World Athletics Sparks Debate: McLaughlin, Bol Shortlisted While Kipyegon, Chebet, Jefferson-Wooden Shockingly Left Out
The athletics world is buzzing after World Athletics revealed its shortlist for the 2025 Female Athlete of the Year and not everyone is pleased with the lineup. While U.S. hurdling sensation Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Dutch star Femke Bol made the cut, several major names who dominated the track this season were left off, sparking heated discussions among fans and analysts alike.
The exclusion of Faith Kipyegon, Kenya’s double world record holder in the 1500m and 5000m, has especially caused an uproar. Kipyegon has been a consistent force in middle-distance running, rewriting history books and proving her dominance year after year. Many believe her omission questions the criteria used for the nominations.
Another surprising snub is Beatrice Chebet, who had a stellar year across multiple distances, including impressive victories in the 5000m and cross-country circuit. Her consistency and medal haul had many tipping her as a frontrunner for the prestigious award.
Fans are also questioning why Julien Alfred, Shericka Jackson, and particularly Julian Jefferson-Wooden, whose performances electrified the 2025 season, didn’t make the shortlist. Jefferson-Wooden’s explosive sprinting season and podium finishes had made her one of the most talked-about names in athletics this year.
Meanwhile, McLaughlin-Levrone and Bol have continued to rewrite the hurdles narrative. McLaughlin broke her own 400m hurdles record earlier this season, while Bol dominated the European circuit and claimed the Diamond League title, solidifying her as one of the sport’s most consistent athletes.
Still, the debate rages on should dominance across different events count more than record-breaking performances in a single discipline? Should consistency outweigh star power?
As the final voting approaches, one thing is clear: this year’s shortlist has stirred emotions across the athletics community. Fans are demanding more transparency, athletes are voicing support for their peers, and World Athletics finds itself once again in the center of a passionate sporting debate.