Jefferson-Wooden Shines, Track Stars Deliver at Grand Slam Track Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA — Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, Olympic bronze medalist and U.S. champion in the 100m, delivered one of her most impressive performances to date at the 2025 Grand Slam Track Philadelphia, winning the 200m in a personal-best 21.99 seconds. The time not only marked her first sub-22 but also set a new record at Franklin Field, beating Olympic 200m champion Gabby Thomas, who finished second in 22.10.

“Even though I’m primarily a 100m runner, the workouts that we do will prep me for the 200m,” said Jefferson-Wooden, who trains in Central Florida alongside Olympic 100m silver medalist Sha’Carri Richardson.

Jefferson-Wooden, who got married in March, plans to compete in both the 100m and 200m at the USA Track & Field Outdoor Championships, July 31–August 3. With this 200m win, she has positioned herself to potentially earn a spot on Team USA in a second sprint event.

HBCU Original was on the scene, bringing live coverage and behind-the-scenes access to fans supporting HBCU athletes and culture at elite track meets like this one.

Other Key Results:

• Ackera Nugent (Jamaica) took the 100m hurdles in 12.44.

• Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone placed fifth in the 100m hurdles at 12.70, just off her personal best of 12.65.

• Marco Arop (Canada) won the men’s 800m in 1:43.38, holding off American Josh Hoey (1:44.41).

• Kenny Bednarek claimed the men’s 200m in 19.95, staying undefeated on the Grand Slam circuit.

• Alison dos Santos (Brazil) remained perfect in the men’s 400m hurdles, clocking 48.11.

• Matthew Hudson-Smith (UK) captured the men’s 400m in 44.51.

• Marileidy Paulino (Dominican Republic) won the women’s 400m in a world-leading 49.12.

• Agnes Jebet Ngetich (Kenya) ran 3:58.04 to win the women’s 1500m.

For full meet results, visit:
👉 Grand Slam Track Official Results