Sevilla admits dislike for 400m despite reaching Birmingham final

Paula Sevilla crossed the finish line in eighth place in the 400-meter final at the Birmingham World Athletics Indoor Championships, clocking 52.03 seconds. The race was won by Norway's Henriette Jaeger in 49.04 seconds. Sevilla, competing from lane two, acknowledged the difficulty of the outer lane but expressed satisfaction with her performance, especially after achieving a personal best of 50.21 seconds in the semifinals.

Despite her success in reaching the final, the 29-year-old Spanish athlete confessed a deep-seated aversion to the 400-meter distance. "I really don't like the 400m, I always say it," Sevilla stated candidly. She explained that she switched to the longer distance a year and a half ago because her body responded better, even though she misses the 200 meters where she excelled. Sevilla cited anxiety and the demanding nature of training as challenges she endures.

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I really don't like the 400m, I always say it.

Sevilla's focus now shifts to the 4x400-meter relay, where she hopes to secure a medal. This potential success could help offset the disappointments faced by other Spanish relay teams, including a dropped baton in the 4x100m and the elimination of the men's 4x400m team. "If my body has chosen the 400m, what can I do? It would be worse if I wasn't good at anything," she resignedly added.

The article also draws a parallel with Cuban triple jumpers Jordan Díaz and Andy Díaz. While Jordan Díaz, an Olympic and European champion, reportedly shows little interest in athletics outside of his events, focusing on football and video games, Andy Díaz recently achieved the fourth-longest triple jump in history. This contrast highlights different approaches and motivations within the sport, with Sevilla embodying dedication despite personal reservations.

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If my body has chosen the 400m, what can I do? It would be worse if I wasn't good at anything.