Overview

• Malaika Mihambo said medals matter but argued that current performance levels and “silent successes” should also count in evaluations.
• She cited examples such as athletes climbing from 30th to 15th on ranking lists as progress that warrants recognition.
• Mihambo highlighted structural pressures, noting many German athletes hold jobs alongside training yet still reach world championship start lines.
• Germany left the 2023 World Championships in Budapest without a medal, then collected four podiums at the Paris Olympics, which she views as an upward sign.
• Looking ahead, she expressed cautious optimism about prospects after encouraging U23 results, while stressing that sustained support and patient development remain essential.