Coe in awe of London World Championships

Bengaluru, August 15: The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) President Sebastian Coe described the recently concluded World Championships in London as the most competitive and compelling of all time.

"I can't remember a time when the competition has been so competitive and the stories around them so compelling," said Coe. "From the opening salvo of discus and long jump to the 4x400M we have witnessed sometimes no more than the thickness of a vest between the finalists.

"There is a clear recognition of the connection between athletes and fans," he added. "The ability of athletes to raise their game is, in a large part, driven by theatre provided by full houses.

"When we get that right, this sport is unassailable."

Many of the sport's established stars - Mo Farah, Wayde van Niekerk, Sally Pearson, for example - won gold medals, but there were also several surprise medallists, which has introduced fans a field of young athletes making their debut on the global scene.

The likes of 100M silver medallist Christian Coleman, 400M hurdles winner Karsten Warholm, 200M finalist Abdul Sani Brown and triple jump winner Yulimar Rojas are among the many captivating stories that have unfolded over the past ten days.

The sport's stars, new and old, have been able to better connect with fans at these championships, thanks to various social media campaigns taking place both inside the stadium and for those watching at home.

Many athletes have commented on how the atmosphere from the sell-out crowds have helped inspire them to medal-winning performances and highly competitive finals with unprecedented depth in numerous events.

Meanwhile, Olympic high jump champion Ruth Beitia of Spain received the Fair Play award from The International Fair Play Committee (CIFP), with the support of the IAAF.

Beitia was recognised for her efforts to console Alessia Trost of Italy after she failed to qualify for the final in the women's high jump.

It was an emotional moment for the 24-year-old, whose mother and former coach passed away in the last year.