LINCOLN, Neb — Axelina Johansson opened the 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships with a medal-winning performance, throwing a lifetime-best 19.75 meters (64-9 1/2) to earn bronze in the women’s shot put on the first day of competition in Torun, Poland.
Johansson entered the meet ranked as the world’s No. 12 female shot putter, but moved into podium position with a strong second throw. Her 19.75-meter mark improved both her Swedish national record and her school record.
The senior from Hok, Sweden, is coming off another major win at the collegiate level. Johansson claimed her third NCAA title a week ago in Fayetteville, Arkansas, finishing a dominant indoor season with a throw of 19.55 meters (64-1 3/4)…