Marco Arop captures bronze in the men’s 800m

Marco Arop of Edmonton has captured Canada’s second medal at the 2022 World Championships, winning bronze in the men’s 800m in a time of 1:44.28.

“This medal means the world,” says Arop. “It will always hold a special place in my heart.” 

Arop had one of the fastest qualifying times heading into the final. He got off to a conservative start, but managed to get his heels clipped by another athlete 200m in. From there, Arop took control of the race, coming through 400m in 52 seconds. Arop began to push down the back straight and held on for bronze.

“I am happy to come out with a medal,” Arop says. “After the disappointment in Doha, missing the Olympic final and finishing eighth at World Indoors, Arop has found the podium.

BRONZE FOR ??: Marco Arop third in the men's 800m 1:44.28!!!#WCHOregon22 #TeamCanada

— Canadian Running (@CanadianRunning) July 24, 2022

“Everything I have been through has been worth it,” he says. “This moment comes full circle.”

The Olympic champion, Emmanuel Korir of Kenya, won the gold in a season’s best time of 1:43.71 and Djamel Sedjati of Algeria took the silver, beating Arop at the line (1:44.14).

This medal is a huge confidence booster for Arop, who has announced himself as one of the best 800m runners in the world. “Once I’ve done something, I know I can do it again,” he says. “I am already looking forward to bigger and better next year.” 

Team Canada now has one silver and one bronze at the 2022 World Championships. The first medal was won by Camryn Rogers in the women’s hammer throw.

The 2022 World Athletics Championships are taking place from July 15-25 from Hayward Field in Eugene, Ore. All the action will be brought to you by Canadian Running and Asics Canada. Follow us on Twitter on Instagram for all things Team Canada and up-to-date exclusive news and content.