Khaddi Sagnia's Dangerous Slip Sparks Calls for Safety Changes at World Championships

Khaddi Sagnia's attempt to qualify for the long jump finals at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo took a perilous turn when she slipped during her first jump. Describing the fall as 'super scary,' Sagnia underscored the urgent need for modifications to the new jumping boards that have reportedly increased the slipping risks due to the removal of a crucial plastic line that helped prevent such incidents.

Expert Alhaji Jeng highlighted the severity of the slip, labeling it 'life-threatening' due to the potential for crucial injuries stemming from landing awkwardly while slipping. Despite Sagnia's respectable jump of 6.48 meters, it was insufficient for qualification to the finals, which saw fellow Swedish athlete Maja Åskag achieve a spot with a jump of 6.61 meters. Åskag, while celebrating her qualification, expressed concern for Sagnia's safety after witnessing the fall.

This incident isn't isolated; similar slips have plagued multiple athletes since the board changes were implemented, raising questions about safety protocols at major events, particularly regarding female athletes. While Sagnia regretted missing the finals, she continues to look towards future goals, including the upcoming 2028 Olympics.