AUDREY WERRO – the rising star of the 800 meters

At just 21 years old, Audrey Werro has established herself as one of the most promising faces in Swiss athletics. A specialist in the 800 meters, she has stepped out of the shadows and into the spotlight with the same fluidity as a perfectly executed race. But behind the bib, there is much more than an athlete: a genuine young woman with a permanent smile and a deep passion—to run fast, live life to the fullest, and stay true to herself.

Audrey, what motivates you to run faster and faster?

My motivation and determination to achieve my goals drive me to run faster and faster. I love achieving the goals I set for myself and pushing my limits.

Loving my sport makes all the difference. I also run because I enjoy it, and it makes it easier to keep getting faster.

You describe your 2025 season as "exceptional": if you had to choose three key moments (not necessarily lap times), which ones would come to mind and why?

The first moment that comes to mind is, of course, the Diamond League final at Weltklasse Zurich. The atmosphere in the stadium was magical, and the crowd carried me to the finish line. Achieving such a performance in front of the Swiss public was a real privilege, especially since most of my competitions take place abroad during the season.

The second highlight was the World Championships final in Tokyo. When I arrived at the starting line, I knew that I had already achieved my goals, and even exceeded them. All that was left was to enjoy this last race of the season and have as much fun as possible.

Finally, the third memory is undoubtedly the final stretch of the Diamond League in Lausanne. The race took place in the rain. In the last 100 meters, I felt fit, full of energy, ready to deliver an exceptional finish. The atmosphere in the stadium was also incredible.

This year, you won the Diamond League 800m final in Zurich! And you posed for a memorable photo with some of the world's best athletes. Has that changed how other athletes see you? And has it changed how you see yourself?

By winning the 800m final in Zurich, I really entered the big leagues, and it's clear that people's perceptions of me have changed. I think people now have higher expectations of me in races.

For my part, my view of myself hasn't changed. I'm still the same person. This race has simply given me more confidence in my abilities.

Of course, there are also the days "after"... How did you experience them? Joy, fatigue, disbelief?

After the Diamond League final, I tried to get back to my training and recovery routine quickly, as the World Championships were approaching. All media interviews were conducted immediately after the final or the following day, so that I could refocus in the days that followed.

I was really happy with my performance, and I even had a little trouble realizing what had happened over those three days. Then I managed to get back into my routine, while keeping those beautiful moments in mind.

I also received more media and social media attention. So I tried to cut myself off from it a little to stay focused on the goals ahead.

Have you ever had moments of doubt—and if so, how did you overcome them?

There are always moments of doubt during an athletics season. The most important thing is to remain convinced of your abilities and keep your self-confidence. I also have a mental coach who supports me during these moments.

You are now a contender for major medals: how do you see yourself in the coming years? What are your goals that you may not yet dare to say out loud?

Over the next few years, I would like to make an even bigger impact on the international stage, continue to enjoy my sport, and start winning medals at European and world level!
My dream is still to win a medal at the Olympic Games.

On or off the track, who are your role models, the people who inspire you the most—or who push you to excel, without even knowing it?

I never really had any role models or idols, even as a child.

If I had to name someone, I would say Sha'Carri Richardson for her extroversion, originality, and confidence on the track.

If I followed you behind the scenes for a week, what "invisible" moment in your life as an athlete would you absolutely want me to discover?

First, I'll show you the little moments of pleasure: jogging with a beautiful view or training with other athletes from my club.
Then I'll show you my recovery routines: stretching, physical therapy sessions, and massages with the Black Roll... These moments are more discreet but just as essential.

Cover photo: Copyright Felix Walker