Perseus Karlström Faces Tough Challenges at World Championships
Perseus Karlström struggles in the 35-kilometer race at the 2025 World Championships.
Key Points
- • Karlström finished 19th in the race, struggling with cramps and stomach issues.
- • He criticized the inadequate medical support he received at the event.
- • Previously, he had a mysterious virus that hampered his performance leading into the Championships.
- • He remains hopeful for the 20-kilometer race depending on his recovery.
At the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Swedish athlete Perseus Karlström confronted significant health issues while competing in the 35-kilometer race. Despite his history of success, having won four World Championship medals, Karlström finished in 19th place and did not podium this time around, nearly nine minutes behind the gold medal winner, Evan Dunfee of Canada.
During the race, Karlström suffered from stomach issues and cramps, which he attributed to a possible bad meal at his hotel. He reported waking up with a bad stomach and experienced severe cramps shortly into the race, forcing him to stop to stretch. His physical challenges were compounded by the medical support available at the venue, which he criticized as inadequate. He stated, "I have never been through a tougher race," expressing frustration over the care he received after completing the event. Reports indicated that he was only given a water bottle and an ice pack before being told to leave the medical room despite his struggles to walk.
Before the Championships, Karlström dealt with a mysterious virus that affected his training and preparedness, adding another layer of difficulty leading into the competition. His performance was initially strong, as he kept pace with leaders; however, collapsing after two miles due to cramping caught viewers off guard, with his mother noting he seemed in good spirits before the onset of physical dysfunction.
Looking ahead, Karlström is scheduled for a chance to compete in the 20-kilometer race the following Saturday, contingent on his recovery. He remains hopeful but cautious, stating he would not race if it were imminent. The events in Tokyo mark a challenging chapter for Karlström as he navigates recovery and contemplates future competitions.