The 2025 Diamond League season opener in Xiamen, China, witnessed a remarkable showcase of talent from Australian female athletes. With national records shattered and podium finishes secured, the event highlighted Australia’s growing prominence in international athletics.

Abbey Caldwell Sets Australian 1000m Record
In the women’s 1000m, Abbey Caldwell delivered a stellar performance, finishing second with a time of 2:32.94. This achievement not only earned her the silver medal but also set a new Australian national record, surpassing her previous best of 2:34.63. Caldwell’s impressive run came just behind Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon, who clocked 2:29.21 to establish a world lead and meet record.
Fellow Australian Sarah Billings also showcased her prowess, securing the bronze medal in the same event. Their combined success underscores Australia’s depth in middle-distance running and sets a promising tone for the season ahead.
Eleanor Patterson and Nicola Olyslagers Excel in High Jump
The women’s high jump event featured a thrilling competition, with Australia’s Eleanor Patterson and Nicola Olyslagers both clearing 1.94 meters. Patterson clinched the silver medal, while Olyslagers took home the bronze. Ukraine’s Yaroslava Mahuchikh secured the gold with a jump of 1.97 meters.
Patterson and Olyslagers have consistently demonstrated excellence in the high jump, with Patterson holding a personal best of 2.02 meters and Olyslagers known for her resilience and technical skill. Their performances in Xiamen reaffirm their status as top contenders on the world stage.
Rose Davies Breaks Australian 5000m Record
Long-distance runner Rose Davies delivered a standout performance in the women’s 5000m, finishing ninth with a time of 14:40.83. This remarkable run set a new Australian national record, surpassing her previous best of 14:41.65 achieved in Tokyo in 2024.
Davies’ achievement is particularly noteworthy given the depth of talent in the field, which included world-class athletes such as Beatrice Chebet and Gudaf Tsegay. Her ability to compete at this level highlights her dedication and the effectiveness of her training regimen.
Conclusion
The Xiamen Diamond League meet marked a significant milestone for Australian women’s athletics. With national records set and multiple podium finishes, athletes like Abbey Caldwell, Rose Davies, Eleanor Patterson, and Nicola Olyslagers have demonstrated their readiness to compete at the highest levels. Their performances not only bring pride to Australia but also inspire the next generation of athletes.
FAQs
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Who is Abbey Caldwell?
Abbey Caldwell is an Australian middle-distance runner who set a new national record in the 1000m with a time of 2:32.94 at the Xiamen Diamond League. -
What is Rose Davies’ new 5000m record?
Rose Davies set a new Australian national record in the 5000m with a time of 14:40.83, surpassing her previous best of 14:41.65. -
How did Australian athletes perform in the high jump?
Eleanor Patterson and Nicola Olyslagers both cleared 1.94 meters in the women’s high jump, earning silver and bronze medals, respectively. -
What is the significance of the Xiamen Diamond League?
The Xiamen Diamond League is the season opener for the prestigious Diamond League series, featuring top athletes from around the world. -
What are the next events for these Australian athletes?
Following their performances in Xiamen, these athletes will continue to compete in upcoming Diamond League meets and prepare for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.