Euphoria in Japan was overwhelming. Andreas Almgren cried, national team captain Kajsa Bergqvist cried and when they had composed themselves on their respective sides – then it broke out again when they stood forehead to forehead in the lower world of the National Arena.
In the midst of all the joy over the Swedish historic bronze medal on 10,000 meters, there was also a thought about the coming days in Tokyo: it was time to prepare for the attempts on 5,000 meters.
"Not to get sick"
The face mask – Almgren packed 60 in his luggage – was put on quickly after the brief celebration.
I have managed to avoid being sick throughout 2025, it is a big part of all this, he says
Now it's about not getting sick.
The 30-year-old traveled to the World Championship with a clear plan, he wanted a medal.
Now he wants another one.
I am in the best shape of my life and I will try to take advantage of it, he says.
How do you see your chances?
I feel that there were many bidders on 10,000 and there are almost more on 5,000.
But I am one of the world's best runners, so there is definitely a chance there too (on 5,000 meters). I enter as the outdoor world leader and have just taken a medal – it would be stupid to say that you should just be along for the ride.
"Without pressure"
The bronze was secured after a sprint along the rail. A strong final effort is also what will be required on 5,000 meters, says Almgren. A task that becomes a bit tougher.
I have worked a lot on my sprint but it will not be the easiest, he says.
I can run a bit without pressure since I already got a medal but I will not aim low.
The attempts on 5,000 meters will be decided on Friday at 13.00. The final awaits on the last day of the championship, Sunday at 12.47.
Born: June 12, 1995 (30 years) in Sollentuna.
Club: Tureberg.
Personal records in selection: 26.52,87 on 10,000 m (Swedish record), 26.53 on 10 km road (European record), 12.44,27 on 5,000 m (European record), 13.05 on 5 km road (Swedish record), 59.23 on half marathon (Swedish record), 7.31,42 on 3,000 m (Swedish record), 3.32,00 on 1,500 m.
Current: Took bronze on 10,000 meters in Tokyo and is now chasing a medal on 5,000 meters.
