Avinash Sable Finishes Ninth in Brussels Diamond League Final

Brussels, Belgium (September 14, 2024): Indian steeplechase star Avinash Sable, celebrating his 30th birthday, finished ninth in the men’s 3000m steeplechase final at the prestigious Brussels Diamond League. Despite a valiant effort, Sable was unable to match his personal best and national record of 8:09.91, falling short of a podium finish.

The race was a thrilling spectacle, with Moroccan Olympic and world champion Soufiane El Bakkali facing a stiff challenge from Kenyan youngster Amos Serem. In a dramatic finish, Serem edged out El Bakkali by a mere 1.70 seconds, claiming the top spot with a time of 8:06.90. Tunisian Mohamed Amin Jhinaoui secured third place, narrowly beating Kenya’s Abraham Kibiwot.

Sable’s ninth-place finish, with a time of 8:17.09, marked his debut in the Diamond League final. Despite falling short of his personal best, he showcased his remarkable talent and continued to make strides in the international steeplechase scene.

The Diamond League final was a culmination of a successful season for Sable, who had qualified for the event by securing a top-10 finish in the overall standings. His consistent performances throughout the season, including a 14th-place finish in the Diamond League standings with three points from two meetings, earned him a coveted spot in the prestigious final.

The Brussels Diamond League final was a bittersweet experience for Sable, who had previously achieved a 11th-place finish in the 3000m steeplechase at the Paris 2024 Olympics. While he missed out on a medal in Brussels, his participation in the event showcased his growing stature in the world of athletics.

As Sable continues to push the boundaries of his abilities, he remains a beacon of hope for Indian athletics. His dedication, talent, and unwavering spirit have inspired countless fans across the country. With the Paris Olympics just around the corner, Sable will be aiming to make an even greater impact on the global stage.

Meanwhile, another Indian athlete, Neeraj Chopra, will be competing in the men’s javelin throw final on Saturday. Chopra, the reigning world champion, is seeking to reclaim the Diamond League title he lost to Czechia’s Jakub Vadlejch last year. With his exceptional talent and unwavering determination, Chopra is poised to make a strong statement and secure a podium finish.

The participation of both Sable and Chopra in the Diamond League final marks a historic moment for Indian athletics. It is the first time that two Indian athletes have competed in a Diamond League final, showcasing the country’s growing prominence in the world of sports.