Amy Hunt, a 23-year-old Cambridge University graduate, has won a stunning silver medal in the 200m at the World Athletics Championships, defying a severe quadriceps rupture and mental health struggles. Hunt powered from sixth to second in the final, clocking 22.14 seconds behind American Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, who won gold in 21.68.
Hunt, who broke the world under-18 record six years ago, faced a devastating injury that required surgery and left her unable to shower without her mother's help. She also battled imposter syndrome and considered dropping out of university multiple times. 'I really have that radical utter insane belief in myself,' she said, crediting her family for supporting her through the lowest points.
After graduating in June 2023, Hunt moved to Italy to train under Marco Airale. Her mantra on the start line was 'no fear', and she visualised the race countless times. 'Failure was never an option for me,' she insisted. 'You can be an academic badass and a track goddess.'
Hunt's victory came ahead of former champions Dina Asher-Smith and Shericka Jackson, who finished fifth and third respectively. She celebrated her achievement by heading to a karaoke bar, where her chosen song was Nelly Furtado's Maneater.
