Post by : Naveen Mittal

Maria Pérez & Caio Bonfim Make History with 20km Walk Golds at World Champs

At the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, two race walk stars delivered historic victories. Spain’s María Pérez secured her second gold of the competition by winning the women’s 20 km walk, while Brazil’s Caio Bonfim made history with his nation’s first-ever global walking title in the men’s 20 km event.

Pérez’s Double Triumph

Pérez defended her 35 km title from the previous week and crossed the 20 km finish line in 1:25:54, finishing 12 seconds ahead of Mexico’s Alegna González. For Pérez, the victory was particularly meaningful—just four years earlier she had missed a medal in the same stadium during the 2021 Olympics by only eight seconds.

Japan’s Nanako Fujii secured bronze, giving the host nation its first global women’s walk medal in history.

Bonfim Brings Gold to Brazil

In the men’s race, Caio Bonfim clocked 1:18:35 to claim the top spot. His win was sealed after Japan’s Toshikazu Yamanishi, a home favorite, was disqualified late in the race following multiple red cards.

China’s Wang Zhaozhao took silver, while Spain’s Paul McGrath captured bronze just seconds behind. Bonfim dedicated his historic gold to his family and spoke emotionally about the support of his three sons.

Why It Matters

For Pérez, achieving a rare “double-double” by winning both the 35 km and 20 km walk confirms her dominance in the sport. For Bonfim, the victory represents not only personal triumph but also a groundbreaking moment for Brazil, marking its arrival on the global race walking stage.

These championships proved that determination, consistency, and resilience are what turn athletes into legends.