Double Gold Delight for India at Taiwan Athletics Open: Jyothi Yarraji and Tejas Shirse Shine in Hurdles
Indian athletics had a reason to celebrate at the 2025 Taiwan Athletics Open, as hurdlers Jyothi Yarraji and Tejas Shirse delivered commanding performances to clinch double gold in their respective events. At a time when global qualification windows are closing fast, these results could not have come at a better moment for the duo — both of whom are chasing elite berths on the international stage.
Jyothi Yarraji: The Hurdles Queen Strikes Again
Asian champion and national record holder Jyothi Yarraji once again showed why she’s considered India’s top sprint hurdler. Clocking a stunning 12.99 seconds in the 100m hurdles final, Yarraji claimed the gold medal with a dramatic comeback in the final stretch.
Trailing until the second-last hurdle, Jyothi’s explosive finish over the last two barriers was a masterclass in championship racing. Pushed by competitors on both flanks, she kept her composure and relied on raw speed and rhythm to cross the line ahead of the pack.
What makes this win even more impressive is that this was her second consecutive sub-13 second performance, underlining her growing consistency at the elite level. Having topped her heats earlier with a comfortable 13.18s, she raised her game when it mattered most — a sign of an athlete in full control of her craft.
For Jyothi, who has already made waves at the continental level, this performance reinforces her readiness to take on the best at upcoming global events. The 12.99s mark is not far from her national record of 12.78s and could prove vital for her World Championships qualification bid.
Tejas Shirse: A Statement Win in 110m Hurdles
If Jyothi’s win was expected, Tejas Shirse’s performance in the men’s 110m hurdles was a statement of intent. Clocking a season-best 13.52 seconds, Shirse not only took the gold but also reminded the selectors and fans alike of his true potential.
After narrowly missing out on qualification for the Asian Athletics Championships 2025, this result was a much-needed redemption for Shirse. He had earlier cruised through the heats with a solid 13.62s, despite not-so-favorable conditions. But in the final, he delivered with clinical precision — his second-best time ever, behind his personal and national record of 13.41s.
What stood out was the complete control Shirse exhibited over the race from the very first hurdle. There was no sign of rust or hesitation, only confidence and clean execution. The victory earned him crucial World Athletics ranking points, boosting his campaign in the “Road to Tokyo” standings for global qualification.
This was a bronze-category meet under the World Athletics Continental Tour, meaning every point and performance matters for athletes like Shirse looking to secure a place at the World Championships or even the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics in the longer run.
The double victory is also a timely boost for Indian athletics, particularly in the hurdles events, which have historically lacked consistent international podium finishes. Both Jyothi and Shirse now find themselves in strong form as the season progresses, and if their current trajectory continues, India could realistically aim for World Championship representation in both men’s and women’s hurdles events.
Jyothi, already a seasoned campaigner with medals at the Asian level, now looks ready to challenge the 12.80s barrier again — a mark that could see her break into global top 20 rankings. Shirse, still relatively under the radar internationally, has shown this week that he’s closing in on world-class territory, especially with better race exposure and consistent execution.
The Taiwan Athletics Open served as more than just a meet — it was a statement from two of India’s brightest stars. For Jyothi, it was confirmation of her standing among Asia’s best. For Tejas, it was the start of a possible redemption arc after the Asian Championships miss.
The immediate goal now will be to convert these continental tour points into qualification for the World Championships. Both athletes are likely to target more meets in the coming weeks to boost their rankings, and the Athletics Federation of India will be keeping a close eye on their progress.
For Indian fans, the sight of two hurdlers dominating an international field — both going sub-13 and under 13.60, respectively — is a reminder that India’s sprint hurdles future is bright. With continued support, smart race selection, and careful injury management, Jyothi Yarraji and Tejas Shirse could be names we hear a lot more of on the world stage in the months to come.
India’s Medal Tally at Taiwan Athletics Open 2025 (Hurdles)
🥇 Jyothi Yarraji – 100m Hurdles – 12.99s (Gold)
🥇 Tejas Shirse – 110m Hurdles – 13.52s (Gold, Season Best)
