Warholm Reflects on Losing 400m Hurdles Record to Dos Santos
Karsten Warholm has spoken about losing his 400m hurdles world record to Alison Dos Santos, who ran 45.80 seconds in Zurich. The Norwegian, who held the mark since 2021, acknowledged that records are on borrowed time but admitted it was a significant part of his identity. He is already planning a response to reclaim the record.
Warholm's 45.94-second mark from the Tokyo Olympic final had stood since 2021, a race where all three medalists broke the previous world record. Dos Santos, who took bronze that day, closed the gap gradually, beating Warholm by just 0.09 seconds in Silesia before his breakthrough in Zurich.
The two hurdlers employ different technical approaches: Dos Santos uses a 12-step rhythm between hurdles thanks to his longer legs, while Warholm takes 13 steps. Warholm acknowledged that Dos Santos's versatility in leading with either leg gives him an advantage, though he remains confident in his own left-leg-first style.
This rivalry could reshape interest in track and field, a sport that thrives on head-to-head narratives. The record change may draw casual viewers who follow milestones, while younger athletes could see Dos Santos's success as proof that Warholm's approach is not the only path. The respectful dynamic between the two may also model sportsmanship for fans, though the looming rematch could generate even greater attention if Warholm reclaims the mark.