National-Record Holder Jinson Johnson Retires from Athletics

Indian middle-distance runner Jinson Johnson, one of the country’s finest athletes, announced his retirement from competitive athletics through a heartfelt social media post.

Johnson, 34, currently holds the Indian National Record in the men’s 1500m with a timing of 3:35.24, set at the ISTAF Berlin meet in 2019. He remains the only Indian to run under 3:36 in the event. Reflecting on his journey, Johnson wrote, “As I step away from competitive athletics, I do so with humility, gratitude, and peace. The track taught me discipline, resilience, and respect. Though I retire from racing, athletics will always live in my heart.”

A three-time Asian Games medallist, Johnson won gold in the 1500m and silver in the 800m at the 2018 Jakarta Games, followed by a bronze in the 1500m at the 2023 edition. He also represented India at the 2016 Rio Olympics, becoming the first Indian man in 36 years to compete in the 800m after Sriram Singh’s appearance in 1980.

In 2018, Johnson broke Sriram Singh’s 42-year-old National Record in the men’s 800m by clocking 1:45.65, a mark later surpassed by Mohammed Afsal in 2025. His consistency and determination made him a standout figure in Indian athletics.

The Kerala-born athlete also earned medals at the Asian Athletics Championships, winning silver in 2015 and bronze in 2017 in the 800m event. His career remains a testament to resilience and excellence, inspiring the next generation of Indian runners.