Yared Nuguse, the American-born son of Ethiopian immigrants, etched his name in track and field history last weekend by setting a new world record in the indoor mile at the prestigious Wanamaker Mile. Nuguse’s remarkable time of 3:46.63 shattered the previous record of 3:47.01 set by Yomif Kejelcha of Ethiopia in 2019.
This historic achievement marks the first world record in the Wanamaker Mile in 70 years and solidifies the former Notre Dame Fighting Irish’s Nuguse’s position as the fastest indoor miler in history. The 25-year-old’s performance is particularly impressive considering it comes just months after his bronze medal win in the 1500 meters at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
A Dominant Performance
Nuguse’s record-breaking run was a display of confidence and strength. He took control of the race early, positioning himself behind the pacesetter for the first half before taking the lead. His quarter-mile splits of 57.38, 55.91, 56.95, and 56.41 demonstrate the consistency and power of his performance.
The American runner’s victory was not without challenge. Hobbs Kessler finished a close second with a time of 3:46.90, also surpassing the previous world record. This competitive push likely contributed to Nuguse’s extraordinary time.
A Rising Star in American Distance Running
Nuguse’s world record is the latest in a series of impressive achievements. He has now won the Wanamaker Mile three consecutive times, with victories in 2023, 2024, and 2025. His coach, Dathan Ritzenhein, noted that Nuguse has been on the brink of breaking records in various mile events, making this accomplishment particularly satisfying.
The new world record holder expressed his newfound confidence, stating, “I’m not afraid of the front anymore. I’m willing to go hurt by myself if I need to”. This mindset shift appears to have been crucial in his record-breaking performance.
Impact on American Track and Field
Nuguse’s achievement is significant for American track and field. He becomes the first American to hold an indoor or outdoor mile world record since Mary Slaney in the 1980s, and the first American male to do so since Dick Buerkle in 1978-1979.
This world record, along with Grant Fisher’s new indoor 3000-meter world record set on the same day, highlights the current strength of American distance running. As Nuguse himself noted, “I think the biggest takeaway is just don’t be afraid to go do it. I am confident I am that strong”.
Yared Nuguse’s world record in the indoor mile is a personal triumph and a milestone for American track and field, inspiring the next generation of runners and setting a new standard for excellence in distance running.