Salwa Eid Naser, the Nigerian-born Bahraini quarter-miler, is once again rewriting the narrative of her career. After years marked by stunning performances, a doping-related suspension, and questions about her future, the 27-year-old has come roaring back in 2025, reminding the world why she’s one of the fastest 400m runners in history.
Her resurgence began early in the season. In March, at the Felix Sanchez Classic in the Dominican Republic, Naser exploded out of the blocks with a time of 48.94 seconds in the 400m — her fastest-ever season opener and the world-leading time at the point. She doubled down in the same meet with a blistering 22.45s in the 200m, a personal best and proof of her versatility across sprint distances.
Momentum continued in May at the Doha Diamond League, where she clocked 49.83s, tying the meet record and reasserting her dominance in a field packed with Olympic and world-level talent. But it was in Zurich in late August that Naser truly stamped her authority, storming to victory in 48.70s; a meet record. While outpacing Olympic champion Marileidy Paulino in a much-anticipated showdown.
At the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Naser added another major medal to her collection, finishing third in the women’s 400m final with a season-best time of 48.19s. Only Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (47.78s) and Paulino ran faster on the day. Despite narrowly missing out on gold, Naser’s bronze was a symbol of grit, form, and a full-circle comeback.
“I’m a bit disappointed but I’m grateful to God. I wish I did 47 too, but it’s okay — at least I got a season best.”
What’s Driving Her Comeback?
Much of Naser’s resurgence comes from her ability to handle pressure. She’s clocked sub-49 times multiple times this season.. Her head-to-head wins over Paulino and podium finishes against Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone show she remains mentally tough and physically elite.
But her journey hasn’t been without controversy.
Naser served a two-year suspension due to “whereabouts” failures; a violation of anti-doping rules that doesn’t involve a positive drug test but carries significant consequences. Since her return, she has walked a fine line between redemption and reputational repair. In interviews, she’s maintained that she never used performance-enhancing drugs, saying,
Now back and in world-beating shape, Naser is focused on staying compliant, fit, and sharp as she targets the 2026 season and perhaps, a shot at breaking the long-standing 400m world record of 47.60s.
Confident and Forward-Looking
Salwa Eid Naser isn’t just back. She’s back in the medal mix, back among the elites, and back chasing history. If her 2025 form is any sign, the 400m world record may not be out of reach after all.
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