Nina Kennedy, the reigning Olympic gold medallist and defending world champion in pole vault, is gearing up for the upcoming world athletics championships in Tokyo. However, the journey to this event has been anything but straightforward for the 28-year-old Australian, whose year has been marred by injuries and a significant surgery earlier this year.
In April 2025, Kennedy underwent major surgery on her hamstring tendon after suffering three strains in quick succession. The procedure led to a prolonged recovery period, involving a significant stint on crutches and extensive rehabilitation. With the qualifying round for the women’s pole vault set for September 16, 2025, Kennedy faces a race against time to return to competitive form.
“It’s about adjusting the goalposts a little bit,” Kennedy explained. “A win in our books is getting to the championships and saying we’ve done everything we can.” Her last competitive appearance was a victory at the 2024 Diamond League in Brussels in mid-September, leaving her without a warm-up meet.
Kennedy’s perspective has shifted from a singular focus on victory to embracing the process. “Last year it was all about ‘I will win the thing and that’s what we’re doing’. This time definitely I have to be more gentle with myself,” she noted.
Overcoming Challenges
Kennedy’s journey to Tokyo is particularly notable, as she won her first world title two years ago in Budapest. That victory granted her a wildcard entry to the championships in Japan, a fortunate turn given her injury struggles this year. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, she secured her gold medal by achieving five out of six first-time clearances, including a winning height of 4.90 meters.
Despite her injuries, Kennedy remains optimistic about her performance. “Being cut open five months ago, I’m definitely not at 100 percent. I want to say I’m at 80 percent, and 80 percent is good enough to make a final,” she stated. She recognizes that anything can happen in a world championships final, especially in the year following the Olympics, which often presents a unique set of challenges for athletes.
Another layer of complexity is added to Kennedy’s preparations as her long-time coach, Paul Burgess, will be working with Team USA in Tokyo. Following allegations against former pole vault coach Alex Parnov, Burgess lost his role at the West Australian Institute of Sport but remains in good standing with Kennedy. “I wouldn’t use the word bizarre,” she commented on his new role. “I’ve seen it all season, so it’s not going to be a shock to me when I get there.”
Looking Ahead
Kennedy’s experience this season has emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability. As she prepares for the qualifying round, she is focusing on “embracing the discomfort, embracing the vulnerability, swinging big and giving it a crack.”
The upcoming competition in Tokyo serves not only as a significant milestone for Kennedy but also as a crucial step towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The athlete’s journey reflects the challenges many competitors face, highlighting the mental and physical demands of high-level sports.
As the date approaches, Kennedy’s determination to compete and her newfound perspective on success will be instrumental in her pursuit of glory at the world championships.
