Mary Moraa, the world champion, commenced her 2024 Diamond League campaign with an impressive triumph in the women’s 800m event in Doha on Friday.
Moraa, fresh off her African Games victory and success at the Kip Keino Classic, surged ahead in the final stretch to clinch the win in a season-best time of 1:57.91.
In a challenging field, Moraa fended off Jemma Reekie, the British indoor mile record holder, who finished second with a time of 1:58.42.
Noélie Yarigo of Benin secured third place with a season-best time of 1:58.70.
Returning to Doha for the first time since the 2019 World Championships, Moraa showcased her dominance from the outset, positioning herself near the front behind the Polish pacemaker Agata Kolakowska.
Despite pressure from Reekie in the final stretch, Moraa held her ground and improved upon her previous season-best of 1:57.96 set at the Kip Keino Classic.
Moraa’s victory reaffirms her stature as a force to be reckoned with in the 800m event, setting a high standard for the remainder of the season.
