Shahnavaz Khan bags long jump bronze for India at World U20 Championships
Shahnawaz opened the final with a 7.67m jump and followed it with 7.72m. He then produced his best effort of the competition, jumping 7.84m on his third attempt. His fourth attempt measured 7.52m, leaving the 7.84m effort as his best mark.
Shahnawaz opened the final with a 7.67m jump and followed it with 7.72m. He then produced his best effort of the competition, jumping 7.84m on his third attempt.
His fourth attempt measured 7.52m, leaving the 7.84m effort as his best mark. There was some concern after his final jump as Shahnawaz appeared to suffer a cramp and was left on his knees, visibly frustrated as he waited to see whether the athletes.
What Happened
None could produce a better mark, allowing the Indian to hold on to bronze. His series in the final read 7.67m, 7.72m, 7.84m and 7.52m.
He also won gold at the Asian U20 Championships, breached the qualification mark for the 2026 Asian Games and became India's third-best long jumper of all time.
Now, the 7.84m jump has given him a place in Indian athletics history.
His uncle Shahrukh is a former National Games champion in the 3000m steeplechase, while another uncle, Mohammad Hadees, was a former national-level javelin thrower and has been a key inspiration for Shahnawaz.
Key Details
His father drove a taxi, while sport was a strong influence within his family.
Shahnawaz grew up in Madhaipur village in Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh district.
He also broke the U20 national record before making his way into the World U20 Championships final.
Over the last four months, he has improved his personal best to 8.23m before raising it again to 8.30m.
Why It Matters
Jithin Arjunan, finished eighth with a best effort of 7.59m.
What Reports Say
Coverage of the story so far points to:
Continued reporting by India Today as more details emerge
