Nigerian sprint queen and Olympian, Favour Ofili, launched her 2025 outdoor campaign in sensational style, clocking a season opening 22.34s (+0.2) in the women’s 200m at the Tom Jones Invitational. Running from lane 7 in a star studded heat that featured some of the world’s best, Ofili held her own and finished second behind reigning Olympic champion Julien Alfred, who stormed to a world leading 21.88s. With this performance, Ofili not only set a new Nigerian lead for the year but also sent a clear message she’s back, and she’s gunning for more.
The Olympian, who was a finalist in the women’s 200m at the Olympic Games, showed poise, power, and finishing strength that sets her apart on the global stage. Ofili’s ability to execute under pressure in a high caliber field ahead of the likes of Tamari Davis, Rasheedat Adeleke, and Daryll Neita confirms she is right on track for another big season. With her trademark drive phase and incredible top end speed, the Nigerian star continues to be a beacon of consistency and excellence in the sprints.
What makes this season opener even more remarkable is the context it’s her first 200m race of the season, yet it places her among the early world leaders. For a 200m Olympic finalist who has repeatedly delivered for Nigeria on both collegiate and international stages, this performance is a strong foundation to build upon. As the outdoor season unfolds and the championship races draw nearer, Favour Ofili looks ready to chase not just national records, but global medals too.
The fire has been lit, and with Favour Ofili in this kind of form, Nigerian athletics fans have every reason to dream big.