Apeldoorn, Netherlands – Saga Vanninen of Finland delivered a stunning performance at the 2025 European Athletics Indoor Championships, capturing the gold medal in the women's pentathlon with a new Finnish national record of 4922 points. The 21-year-old's dominant display also secured a European under-23 record, cementing her status as a rising star in combined events.
The competition, held in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, saw Vanninen start strongly, clocking a personal best of 8.19 seconds in the 60m hurdles, a testament to her improved speed and technique. Only Lithuania's Beatrice Juskeviciute ran a faster time in the event.
Vanninen continued her momentum in the high jump, clearing 1.91 meters and placing fourth. Her strength became particularly evident in the shot put, where she launched the implement a remarkable 15.56 meters, over half a meter further than her closest competitor. This feat propelled her to a commanding lead, more than 300 points ahead of the field.
The evening session began with another personal best, as Vanninen soared to 6.52 meters in the long jump. However, Sofie Dokter of the Netherlands won the long jump, closing the gap significantly and setting up a thrilling finale in the 800m.
The 800m saw Vanninen strategically position herself behind Dokter, while Ireland's Kate O'Connor pushed the pace. As the final lap commenced, Dokter, despite the fervent support of the home crowd, began to fade. Vanninen maintained her composure, crossing the finish line in 2:12.20, just behind O'Connor. This performance was sufficient to seal her victory.
Vanninen's total of 4922 points eclipsed her previous national record and set a new European under-23 standard, finishing 96 points ahead of silver medalist Sofie Dokter. Kate O'Connor secured the bronze medal.
This gold medal, combined with Senni Salminen's bronze in the women's triple jump earlier in the week, marked a successful European Indoor Championships for Finland, showcasing the nation's growing strength in athletics. Vanninen's performance highlights her potential to become a major force in international pentathlon competitions.
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