GB's Kerr reclaims world indoor 3,000m title

Josh Kerr reclaimed the world indoor 3,000m title in Poland, describing the victory as a 'family win' as Britain secured its first medal at the World Athletics Indoor Championships.

“Josh Kerr said his post-injury return to the top of a global podium was a "family win" after he reclaimed his 3,000m title in thrilling fashion to secure Britain's first medal at the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Poland”

BBC

The 28-year-old is now a three-time world champion, having previously won gold in the event on home soil in Glasgow two years ago.

BBC

He powered away on the final lap to finish in 7:35.56, distancing his rivals and beating a field that included Olympic 1500m medallists.

The final lap saw Kerr move through the field as Addisu Yihune set the pace at the front with Cole Hocker and Olympic bronze medallist Yared Nuguse close behind.

Kerr hit the front at the bell and proved too strong as Hocker attempted to close the gap in the closing stages.

BBC

Hocker finished second and Yann Schrub took bronze.

Hocker had out-kicked Kerr in their only previous meeting this season over two miles at the Millrose Games.

Kerr's comeback followed a devastating grade-two calf tear he sustained in Tokyo, which originated from a freak accident when he overstretched at the end of his semi-final and gave out in the medal race.

“Josh Kerr said his post-injury return to the top of a global podium was a "family win" after he reclaimed his 3,000m title in thrilling fashion to secure Britain's first medal at the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Poland”

BBC

Much of his rehab guidance came from his mum, who was in the crowd on Saturday and also acts as his physiotherapist.

Kerr admitted his decision to hobble to the finish likely caused more damage, but his recovery has been much quicker than expected.

Kerr said he was extremely fit coming into this and had a couple of problems at the British Championships, but this was always the main goal and he needed this one.

The two-time Olympic medallist's self-belief remained unshaken as he eyed a fifth global podium in five years.

BBC

He credited his preparation and his mum's support, saying the victory showed the strength of his comeback.