Josh Kerr produced a stunning performance to beat Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen and win the world championship 1500m gold in Budapest. The 25-year-old Scot, who won bronze in Tokyo two years ago, followed the tactics of his friend Jake Wightman, who defeated Ingebrigtsen in the same manner at last year's World Championships.
Kerr, who finished in 3min 29.38sec, took the lead with 200m to go. Ingebrigtsen briefly regained it with 100m remaining, but Kerr kicked again on the final straight to secure victory. Narve Nordas of Norway took bronze. Ingebrigtsen later revealed he had been feeling unwell, saying he was only about 88% fit.
Kerr said he had been planning this victory ever since finishing fifth at the 2022 World Championships. 'I threw my whole 16 years of this sport into that last 200m and didn't let up until the end,' he said. He also admitted he deliberately wore the same kit as Wightman did last year, smiling as he hinted it might have brought back 'some nightmares' for Ingebrigtsen.
The win was hailed by Wightman, who was absent due to a foot injury, calling Kerr 'the Terminator' and praising his 'internal confidence'. Fellow Briton Neil Gourley, who finished ninth, said he had seen Kerr's confidence growing. Kerr now has his sights set on further success, having made considerable sacrifices in his personal life to pursue his athletic goals.
