Senegalese athletics is confirming its rise to prominence. Following the crowning of Louis-François Mendy, 110m hurdles specialist, as Best Athlete of 2024, it is now Saly Sarr's turn to be named Best Sportswoman of the Year 2025 by the National Association of Sports Press (ANPS). This distinction recognizes the consistency, hard work, and talent of an athlete now considered one of the leading figures in the sport.

This recognition is not merely individual: it sends a strong signal to an entire sector. Two consecutive titles for athletes from track and field reflect tangible progress and suggest promising prospects for the next generation of national athletes.

"This double consecration proves that Senegalese athletics is making good progress and that bright futures are emerging," emphasizes El Hadji Bara Thiam, 1st vice-president of the Senegalese Athletics Federation.

A finalist at the last World Championships in Tokyo in 2025, where she finished 9th, Saly Sarr has shown that she belongs at the world level.

However, to reach the next level, the question of institutional and financial support remains crucial. "Saly Sarr is an athlete of international caliber. If we want her to win a world or Olympic medal, she must receive comprehensive support and preparation commensurate with her ambitions," insists Bara Thiam.

The federation is therefore calling for a concerted effort: sponsors, the government, technical partners, and the private sector. The goal is to enable the athlete to regularly participate in high-level competitions, access suitable training facilities, and compete against the world's best. "Because while the talent is there, the resources must follow," says Mr. Thiam.

The congratulations are unanimous, but the federation wants to ensure that the celebration doesn't overshadow the challenges that remain. "Now, beyond these congratulations, this enthusiasm shouldn't be the tree that hides the forest. She finished 6th at the Tokyo 2025 World Championships and she needs support for future competitions. She is a world-class athlete and she needs comprehensive support to aspire to a world, or even Olympic, medal. I think the problem lies there, and immediate solutions must be found to allow her to have good preparation and compete against the best in the world before it's too late," warns Mr. Thiam.