Jessica Oji Wins Historic Shot Put Gold for Nigeria at World U20 Championships

Nineteen‑year‑old Jessica Oji became the first Nigerian to win a field‑event title at the World Athletics U20 Championships, throwing 18.08 m to claim gold in the women’s shot put in Eugene, Oregon. The victory follows her silver medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games and her switch of allegiance from the United States to Nigeria earlier this year.

India’s Ashish Yadav opened his country’s medal tally at the same championships with a silver in the men’s javelin, recording a best throw of 74.09 m. He became the second Indian ever to win silver in the event, joining Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra. South Africa’s Jan‑Hendrik Heymans took gold.

Nigeria also set a mixed 4×100 m relay U20 record and advanced several athletes to finals, underscoring a strong overall performance at the meet.