Sports Personality of the Year 2024: Keely Hodgkinson ‘pretty close’ to 800m world record

In another stellar season Hodgkinson went unbeaten over two laps and battled through illness to retain her European title, which in 2022 represented her first major outdoor title.

Her improved British record at the London Diamond League in July was not only confirmation that she was ready to make the next step on the podium in Paris, but it has also brought Kratochvilova’s as yet untouched record firmly within reach.

Painter said: “We are always going to push those boundaries and try to get the world records,whether indoor or out.

“Whether it happens in 2025 we will have to wait and see, but we will do our best to get it.”

After a minor hamstring injury ended her 2024 season before she could defend her Diamond League title, Hodgkinson returned to training in South Africa in recent weeks.

But having admitted that she struggled mentally following the unfamiliar high of her breakout first Games at Tokyo, she is unwavering in her determination as she prepares to chase more history and – in her own words – become one of Britain’s greatest ever athletes.

The World Indoor Championships take place in Nanjing, China, in March before the outdoor gold is on the line in Tokyo in September.

“I think this year I have found a real joy in competing,” said Hodgkinson.

“I just loved London [Diamond League] so much, I loved Prefontaine [Classic], I loved Paris.

“I have loved being in front of a crowd, putting on a performance, having people behind me and winning for them.

“So I am just looking forward to continuing in that way.”