Keely Hodgkinson shattered the women's indoor 800m world record in Lievin, France, clocking 1:54.87 to erase a mark that stood since 2002. The 23-year-old Briton, born on the day the previous record was set, proved her resilience after overcoming injuries last year. Her training group has dubbed her "Keely 2.0" as she returns to peak form.

Coaches Trevor Painter and Jenny Meadows had meticulously planned the record attempt for months, selecting Lievin's notoriously fast track. Meadows revealed Hodgkinson's confidence was unwavering despite physical setbacks. The Briton overcame hamstring issues that derailed her 2025 plans, showing remarkable mental strength by claiming bronze at September's World Championships.

Hodgkinson now sets her sights on Jarmila Kratochvilova's 43-year-old outdoor record of 1:53.28. With the World Indoor Championships approaching, the Briton stands as a firm gold medal favorite. Her coach believes London could be the scene for her greatest achievement, where Hodgkinson aims to cement her legacy as a "legend of the sport".