Tylertown’s Jordan Anthony wins world indoor 60m dash title

Jordan Anthony, a native of Tylertown, Mississippi, won the gold medal in the 60-meter dash at the 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Poland. The 21-year-old posted a world-leading time of 6.41 seconds during the event, which was held Friday.

Anthony, who recently finished his college football career as a wide receiver at the University of Arkansas, turned professional just months ago. His time of 6.41 seconds was the fastest among a field that included Jamaican Olympic silver medalist Kishane Thompson, who finished in 6.45 seconds. Anthony’s performance ranks as the joint-fourth-fastest in the event’s history and makes him the fourth-youngest athlete to win the world indoor 60-meter title, according to organizers.

Anthony advanced through three rounds of the event, winning the preliminary heat in 6.54 seconds. He then clocked 6.43 seconds in the semifinals, matching his personal best. His victory marked the 11th time an American has won the 60-meter title at the World Indoor Championships since its inception in 1985. Notable previous winners include Justin Gatlin and Christian Coleman.

Following his victory, Anthony expressed confidence. “I used to play college football, and I performed in front of a lot more people, but coming out here today made me a bit more excited,” he said at a post-race press conference. “This felt easy for me. This proves to me I picked the right sport. I am looking forward to the outdoor season.”

Anthony faced significant adversity ahead of the competition. A day and a half before the event, he developed a blood clot about the size of a golf ball after a doping control officer accidentally injected him in the wrong spot. U.S. track officials treated the swelling, which prevented him from sleeping or moving his arm comfortably. Despite the setback, Anthony persevered and made history with his victory, demonstrating resilience and focus.

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