Olympic champions Mutaz Essa Barshim and Ryan Crouser and local star Jazmin Sawyers will all be in action when the Wanda Diamond League returns to London on July 23rd.
European indoor long jump champion Jazmin Sawyers will be joined by Olympic champions Mutaz Essa Barshim and Ryan Crouser in a star-studded array of field events at the Wanda Diamond League meeting in London on July 23rd.
Sawyers won the first continental title of her career in Istanbul earlier this year, setting a new British record in the process. She will return to a hero's welcome at the London Stadium, where she hopes to pick up crucial points on the road to the Wanda Diamond League Final in September.
Sawyers said, “After the highs of the indoor season, I am really looking forward to competing outdoors, and to be back in the London Stadium for this event will be amazing. I cannot wait to compete in front of the huge home crowd again.
“I have been fortunate enough to compete in front of the UK crowd several times during my career, so I know the boost it gives all the athletes, particularly the British athletes. So, I look forward to seeing everyone there this summer to cheer me on at the long jump pit down the backstraight.”
Three-time Diamond League champion Barshim is out to regain the Diamond Trophy this season. After a disappointing start at the season opener in Doha, he will be hoping to channel the form which saw him crowned world champion in London six years ago.
To open my Wanda Diamond League season in Doha was special as there is no support quite like the support you get at home, but returning to London, where I won my first World Championships title, is always close to my heart,” said the 31-year-old.
“I know I’ve achieved a lot, but I’m still chasing and aiming for more. I have set my own goals and targets for 2023 and the World Championships and the Asian Games are at the top of that list. Competing in London is the perfect preparation for Budapest where I’m aiming to win my fourth global title.”
Another former Diamond League and current Olympic champion in action in London will be US shot put world record holder Ryan Crouser. The American won his first ever Diamond Trophy in 2021, before losing his throne to compatriot Joe Kovacs last season.
Crouser said, “I am really looking forward to competing in the London Stadium once again. It has been a few years since I have thrown there, so it will be great to have this competition just a few weeks before the World Athletics Championships.
“The Diamond League events always bring a strong competition, so I look forward to being part of a great show with my fellow shot putters. I look forward to seeing all the UK fans in July.”
The Wanda Diamond League London is the tenth leg of athletics' premier one-day meeting series. The WDL comprises 14 of the most prestigious events in global track and field. Athletes compete for points at the 13 series meetings in a bid to qualify for the two-day Wanda Diamond League Final in Eugene on 16th-17th September.
