Jinson Johnson Retires from Competitive Athletics After 15 Years

Jinson Johnson Announces Retirement

New Delhi, Jan 7: Indian middle-distance athlete Jinson Johnson has officially retired from competitive sports, concluding a remarkable 15-year career.

Johnson, who represented India in the 800m event at the Rio 2016 Olympics, leaves behind a legacy that includes a national record in the 1500m, achieved at the ISTAF Berlin meet in 2019 with a time of 3:35.24.

His participation in the Rio Olympics marked a significant milestone, making him the first Indian male athlete to qualify for the 800m since Sriram Singh in 1980.

"From a boy with a dream, I began my journey in Kolkata and reached the Asian Games podium in Hangzhou 2023. Thank you, Athletics. Some journeys are measured in meters and seconds, while others are measured in tears, sacrifices, faith, and the support of those who never let me fall," Jinson shared in a heartfelt social media post.

"I was fortunate to represent my nation at the Olympic Games, World Athletics Championships, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games. Each time I donned the tricolor, I ran not just with my legs but with my heart."

At 34, Jinson is a three-time Asian Games medallist, having won gold in the 1500m and silver in the 800m in 2018, along with a bronze in the 1500m in 2023. He also secured silver and bronze medals at the Asian Athletics Championships in 2015 and 2017, respectively.

In 2018, he set the national record for the 800m, breaking Sriram Singh’s long-standing record with a time of 1:45.65, although this record was surpassed by Mohammed Afsal in 2025.

"As I retire from competitive athletics, I do so with a sense of humility, gratitude, and peace. The track has instilled in me discipline, resilience, and respect. While I may no longer race, athletics will forever hold a special place in my heart."

"Thank you for everything. Thank you for believing in me. Thank you, India," he concluded.