Canada’s Marco Arop secures third in the Zurich Diamond League 800m, setting sights on defending his world title next month in Tokyo.
Canadian Star Shines in Zurich
Canadian middle-distance runner Marco Arop placed third in the men’s 800 metres at the Diamond League Final in Zurich, Switzerland, on August 28, 2025. The 26-year-old Edmonton athlete crossed the line in 1:42.57, finishing less than a metre behind Olympic champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi of Kenya and Britain’s Max Burgin.
Race Highlights and Standings
The showdown was tight from the start. Wanyonyi surged ahead to claim the victory in 1:42.37, Burgin followed at 1:42.42, and Arop closed in just behind. Despite the near-miss, the Canadian delivered one of his strongest tactical races of the season, collecting $7,000 in prize money while Wanyonyi earned $30,000.
Why This Finish Matters
Arop entered Zurich after a winless Diamond League season, but Thursday’s race marked a return to form ahead of his world title defence in Tokyo next month. His coach, Chris Woods, praised the performance, noting that “slightly better execution” could give Arop the edge over Wanyonyi, who holds the world’s fastest time this year at 1:41.44.
How the Race Played Out
Unlike earlier meets, Arop started aggressively and stayed close to the leaders through the first 400 metres. In the final straight, he attempted to overtake on the outside but was narrowly held off. Woods later identified pacing in the first 300 metres as the key tactical adjustment heading into the World Championships.
What’s Next for Arop
Following Zurich, Arop will join Team Canada at a pre-worlds training camp in Japan. He enters the World Championships as one of four Canadians defending global titles, seeking to extend his legacy as the nation’s 800m record holder. Despite a lingering toe injury, Arop reported feeling “98 per cent healthy” and ready for the challenge.
A Legacy Still Building
This podium marks Arop’s fourth career medal at a Diamond League Final, adding to his growing international résumé. While a Diamond League trophy remains elusive, his Zurich finish reinforced his consistency against the world’s best and set the stage for a compelling title defence.
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