Sarvesh Kushare Makes Historic Leap at World Athletics Championships

India's high jump sensation, Sarvesh Kushare, has created history by becoming the first Indian high jumper to reach the finals at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. On Tuesday, Kushare secured a commendable sixth-place finish with a personal best jump of 2.28m, achieved on his third attempt.

The podium in the men's high jump was dominated by Hamish Kerr of New Zealand, who took gold with a leap of 2.36m, followed by South Korean athlete Sanghyeok Woo and Czech Republic's Jan Stefela.

Elsewhere, Murali Sreeshankar struggled in the men's long jump, failing to qualify beyond the initial round. Despite a return after a knee injury, Sreeshankar managed a best effort of 7.78m, falling short of the 8.15m qualification mark. On the women's side, steeplechasers Parul Chaudhary and Ankita Dhyani couldn't make the medal round, finishing 20th and 35th overall, respectively.

India's hurdles contender, Tejas Shirse, the national record holder, clocked 13.57 seconds in the 110m but was unable to advance to the semifinals. The Indian contingent in Tokyo 2025 comprises 19 athletes across various events, aiming to add to the country's modest medal tally in the championships.

(With inputs from agencies.)