Melissa Jefferson-Wooden and Kenny Bednarek blazed to victories in the 100m at the US Championships in Oregon on Friday, punching their tickets to Tokyo’s World Championships in blistering fashion

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden and Kenny Bednarek blazed to victories in the 100m at the US Championships in Oregon on Friday, punching their tickets to Tokyo’s World Championships in blistering fashion.

 

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden and Kenny Bednarek delivered electrifying performances at the US Track and Field Championships in Oregon on Friday, each capturing the 100-meter national title and securing their spots at the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo.

With the Hayward Field crowd buzzing under clear evening skies, Jefferson-Wooden stormed to victory in the women’s final with a time of 10.86 seconds, showcasing her signature explosive start and powerful drive phase. The 23-year-old South Carolina native held off strong finishes from Tamari Davis (10.91) and Aleia Hobbs (10.95), who also qualified for Team USA.

“I came here with a purpose,” Jefferson-Wooden said post-race. “I wanted to prove that I belong on the world stage again. This was a statement—not just for others, but for myself.

It marks a return to form for Jefferson-Wooden, who burst onto the scene in 2022 by winning the US title and later earning relay gold at the World Championships. After a few seasons battling injuries and inconsistency, her victory Friday night reestablished her as a force to be reckoned with heading into Tokyo.

On the men’s side, Kenny Bednarek powered down the track to win the 100m in a personal-best 9.92 seconds, holding off a fast-finishing Christian Coleman (9.96) and up-and-comer Brandon Hicklin (9.98). All three sprinters broke the 10-second barrier, thrilling the crowd with one of the fastest finals in recent national championship history.

Bednarek, better known for his prowess in the 200 meters, has increasingly turned heads in the shorter sprint. His win marks the first national 100m title of his career.

“I’ve been working hard to sharpen my speed and prove that I’m more than just a 200 guy,” Bednarek said. “Tonight was about execution, and I feel like I nailed it. I’m proud, but I know the work is just beginning.”

The victory was especially sweet for Bednarek, who has often played the role of silver medalist—most notably at the Tokyo Olympics in the 200m. With his confidence surging and his versatility on full display, he now heads to Tokyo’s World Championships with eyes on gold.

The US Championships serve as the final selection meet for Team USA ahead of the 2025 World Athletics Championships, set to begin in Tokyo later this month. Jefferson-Wooden and Bednarek will lead a formidable American sprint contingent looking to reclaim global dominance.

Both athletes credited their support teams and emphasized their focus on staying healthy and consistent over the next few weeks.

“I know what it takes to medal on the world stage,” Jefferson-Wooden said. “Now it’s about staying locked in and bringing my best when it matters most.”

With their victories, Jefferson-Wooden and Bednarek not only punched their tickets to Tokyo—they reignited excitement for American sprinting and reminded the world that Team USA is as deep and dangerous as ever.