Leo Neugebauer of Germany fought through exhaustion and pain to claim decathlon gold at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. After completing the final 1,500 meters in 4:31.89, the 25-year-old lay motionless on the rain-soaked track, barely able to stand. His total of 8,804 points edged Puerto Rico’s Ayden Owens-Delerme (8,784) and American Kyle Garland (8,703). Former world champion Niklas Kaul finished fourth.

Officials brought out a wheelchair, but Neugebauer insisted on walking to the stands to celebrate with his parents. Raised in a sports-oriented family near Stuttgart, Neugebauer focused on athletics from age 15, eventually earning a scholarship to the University of Texas at Austin, where he balances economics studies with elite training.

Nicknamed “Leo the German,” the 2.01-meter athlete improved his javelin approach ahead of Tokyo, achieving a personal-best throw of 64.89 meters. He credits the U.S. move for improved training conditions and support. “I love the climate. It’s warm, and everyone seems in a good mood,” he said.

Neugebauer’s performance showed strength on the second day of the decathlon, fueled by crowd energy. With his world title secured, he is already looking ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. “There is more to come,” he said confidently.